Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for significantly driving Bhutan’s economic growth over the last decade. He stated that the Global South looks to India for solutions to key global issues.
“The world needs India. This is India’s century for many reasons. India has the largest and growing population. It has a booming economy that should have crossed five trillion US dollars without COVID-19. India boasts the biggest consumer base and a large diaspora, especially in advanced countries. By every measure, it is India’s century. The entire Global South trusts India’s leadership,” Tobgay said during the session titled ‘India-Bhutan Ties: The Next Phase’ at the NDTV World Summit.
Strengthening Bhutan-India Ties
The 59-year-old leader, born in West Bengal’s Kalimpong, asserted that Modi’s previous two terms will serve as a springboard to advance India.
“If any country can resolve problems, it is India. The world looks to Indian markets for economic solutions. During the COVID pandemic, the world turned to India for vaccines and medicine. In the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, I believe Prime Minister Modi can help resolve the situation,” Tobgay added.
He praised India’s support—”especially that of PM Modi”—and Indian investors, noting how Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) index connects with social progress, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and good governance.
Infrastructure and Clean Energy Partnerships
“We have many developmental partners and multilateral agencies, but we have one main friend: India. India has always been there for us. The government of India is providing us with an ₹8,500 crore assistance package for our 13th five-year plan, which is almost double the support from the 12th five-year plan. This funding will finance essential infrastructure in Bhutan—roads, bridges, schools, IT, and hospitals,” Tobgay said.
He referred to PM Modi as his “brother,” emphasizing that Modi is always ready to assist Bhutan in its time of need.
Both countries are engaged in a productive clean energy partnership, focusing on developing Bhutan’s hydro-power sector and ensuring regional energy security.
“PM Modi has launched the solar alliance, emphasizing renewable energy and encouraging like-minded countries to join. We have significant hydrogen potential and have tapped about 2,500 megawatts, almost entirely in partnership with India. Both countries now aim to launch around 2,000 megawatts of projects,” Tobgay mentioned. He hopes India’s rise as an advanced nation will benefit neighboring countries in the region.
A host of world leaders, including Prime Minister Modi, addressed the opening day of the ‘NDTV World Summit 2024 – The India Century’ on Monday. They discussed major global issues and India’s rise over the past decade.
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