- share unique, time tested friendsihp based on geographical proximity, spiritual heritage (buddhism) and mutual respect
- all weather friends
- cooperate on regional peace, economy, env
History
- cultural ties: 8th century during Guru Padmasambhava time
- Post 1947: bhutan recognized indian independence early; india supported bhutan’s UN entry
- 1949 Treaty of Friendship: basis of diplomatic relations; revised 2007
- 2007 treaty revisions
- promotes equality, allowing bhutan autonomy in foreign & defence policy
- ensures mutual cooperation on security & unlawful acts
Cooperation areas
- Political
- india supported Bhutan’s transition to democracy
- Shared positions in SAARC, BIMSTEC, BBIN
- economic
- india is bhutan’s top trading partner $1.6B in 2022-23
- supports bhutan’s FYP
- key partner in hydropower
- culture
- shared buddhist, hindu heritage
- india key destination for Bhutanese students
- Geostrategy & security
- bhutan is buffer b/w china & india
- cooperation in Dokolam, river data sharing, insurgent control
2024 King visit
- Gelephu mindfulness city: indian participation confirmed
- energy: Fast tracking Punatsangchhu projects
- connectivity: opening Darranga ICP
- space & step: strengthen edu & satellite cooperation
Challenges
| Issue | Details |
|---|
| External debt | 100% of GDP, mostly with India |
| Hydropower delays | India’s delays in executing projects hinder the 10GW goal |
| Insurgency | ULFA, NDFB activity in SE Bhutan |
| China factor | Bhutan - China engagement concern |
| Electricity tariff | india’s power surplus, renewables affect bhutan’s profitability |
| Indian interference | |
| Sovereignty sentiment | projects eg. Dantak raise local concerns over autonomy |
| BBIN opt out | Bhutan declined the MVA due to env concerns |
Is Bhutan drifting away
- inc diplomatic overtures towards china
- Bhutan’s balancing democracy, evident during Dokolam & border talks
- India’s strong stand on border may cause Bhutan to tread cautiously
- Bhutan china 3 step roadmap fuels speculation about shifting alignments
Way forward
- political: respect bhutanese sovereignty, promote institutional ties, support act eats vision
- defence: conduct joint exercises, enhance counter insurgency cooperation
- economic: diversify bhutan’s export, aid its services & tourism sectors
- hydro : expedite projects
- education & culture: boost exchanges thru NKN, India Bhutan Foundation
- Space/Env: continue space cooperation eg. NIS-2B, expand Env MoU
- support Bhutan border talks, enhance defence readiness to counter china