Building new foundations for relationships

New Delhi/Thimphu, May 17: Indian prime minister Dr Man Mohan Singh said his desire to shape a relationship with Bhutan that builds upon the solid foundations of the past and responds to each other's national interests and aspirations in the 21st century.

According to a statement issued on the eve of his visit to Bhutan on Friday, Dr Singh said, the two countries traditionally enjoy a unique relationship. "It is a partnership rooted in close historical and cultural linkages between two friendly sovereign neighbors. Our relations are based on deep mutual trust and confidence," he added.

He said his visit takes place in a year that holds special significance for Bhutan. "2008 marks the centenary of the Wangchuck dynasty, the coronation of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and the installation of the first ever democratically elected government in Bhutan. This year is also the 50th anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's historic visit to Bhutan in 1958, and the first anniversary of the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty," his statement reads.

He said India-Bhutan relationship is a model of inter-State relations.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, Dr Singh told media, "I have come with a message…That India stands ready to join hands with the people and the government of Bhutan to strengthen our relationship to do our bid for accelerated development of Bhutan." Bhutan News Service