AdvantageAssam2: Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City Will Be a Symbol of Unity and Shared Prosperity: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

CM described the Indo-Bhutan relationship as a "shining testament to a friendship that transcends borders and celebrates shared values."

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to Bhutan while attending a session on “Indo-Bhutan Economic Cooperation and Gelephu Mindfulness City – Opportunities for Mutual Collaboration” at the Advantage Assam 2.0: Investment & Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati. The event, graced by Bhutan’s Minister of Agriculture & Livestock Younten Phuntsho, explored ways to strengthen trade, connectivity, and investment between Assam and Bhutan, emphasising their deep-rooted historical and economic ties.

Speaking at the event, CM Sarma described the Indo-Bhutan relationship as a “shining testament to a friendship that transcends borders and celebrates shared values.” He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi gives Bhutan “the highest priority,” ensuring that the historic Indo-Bhutan bond will not only endure but thrive under the leadership of both PM Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

A key highlight of the discussion was the ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project, a visionary initiative of the Bhutan King aimed at transforming the region into a hub of economic and cultural collaboration. CM Sarma hailed GMC as a “symbol of unity and shared prosperity” between the two nations and expressed gratitude to PM Modi for his unwavering support in making this dream a reality. He assured that alongside the Government of India, the Assam government is fully committed to working in tandem with GMC’s vision, aligning similar development initiatives on the Indian side of the border.

CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced major infrastructure projects that will further strengthen Indo-Bhutan ties. These include the development of an Inland Waterways Terminal at Jogighopa to boost regional trade, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Assam (subject to Central approval) to facilitate economic collaboration with GMC, and the Kokrajhar-Gelephu Rail Connectivity, which is actively being pursued by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar himself. Additionally, the Assam government is working on enhancing road infrastructure surrounding GMC to ensure seamless transportation and trade.

Bhutan’s Minister Younten Phuntsho lauded Assam’s rapid infrastructure growth under CM Sarma, stating that it opens up “tremendous opportunities” for Bhutan. He reiterated Bhutan’s commitment to green energy, agricultural innovation, and economic resilience while calling for deeper Indo-Bhutan cooperation to drive innovation, food security, and sustainable development. The event was also attended by Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pobitra Margherita, BTR Chief Promod Bodo, Assam Minister UG Brahma, and Tata Power CEO & MD Dr. Praveer Sinha.

With Assam and Bhutan forging stronger economic and infrastructural ties, the future of Indo-Bhutan cooperation looks brighter than ever.

Also Read: PM Modi is doing everything possible for Assam: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

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