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Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Bhutan's capital Thimphu on Tuesday (11 November) for a two-day state visit, aimed at deepening bilateral friendship and cooperation, reported The Times Of India.

During the trip, he will attend the 70th birthday celebrations of the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and hold high-level meetings with the current King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, the Fourth King, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

Before his departure, PM Modi said, "I am confident that my visit will further deepen our bonds of friendship and strengthen our efforts towards shared progress and prosperity."

He also stated, "It would be my honour to join the people of Bhutan as they mark the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King."

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes. This visit comes at a time when Bhutan is marking the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will be holding talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay."

During the visit, the Prime Minister will take part in the Global Peace Prayer Festival hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan. The trip will also witness the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, marking another key milestone in the countries' energy partnership.

Highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation, PM Modi said, "Our partnership is a key pillar of our Neighbourhood First Policy and a model for exemplary friendly relations between neighbouring countries."