Bharatiya Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded the prestigious Order of the Druk Gyalpo, Bhutan’s highest civilian honour, by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This remarkable recognition marks a significant milestone in the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his congratulations to Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the exceptional ties between the two nations. He emphasized that this honor not only reflects Prime Minister Modi’s personal stature but also strengthens the bond of friendship between Bharat and Bhutan.
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, lauded this historic moment, noting that Prime Minister Modi is the first foreign leader to receive this prestigious award. The decision to confer this honor on Prime Minister Modi was announced during Bhutan’s National Day celebrations in December 2021, recognizing his significant contribution to strengthening bilateral ties.
The Order of the Druk Gyalpo is the highest decoration in Bhutan and is reserved for lifetime achievement. It holds precedence over all other orders, decorations, and medals in the country. Previous recipients of this esteemed award include notable figures such as Royal Queen Grandmother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck and religious leaders like Je Thrizur Tenzin Dendup and Je Khenpo Trulku Ngawang Jigme Choedra.
Expressing his gratitude, Prime Minister Modi thanked King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck for bestowing upon him this esteemed honor. Addressing the audience at the Tendrelthang Festival Ground in Thimphu, he acknowledged the significance of receiving an award from another country, symbolizing the strengthening of bilateral relations.
During his visit to Bhutan, Prime Minister Modi held talks with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, reaffirming the commitment to the special and unique friendship shared between India and Bhutan. The leaders discussed various avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation and elevate their relationship to new heights.
Amidst the cultural festivities at the Tendrelthang Festival Ground, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by the people of Bhutan, showcasing the deep-rooted bonds of friendship between the two nations. His visit not only reinforces the strong diplomatic ties but also celebrates the rich cultural exchanges and mutual respect between India and Bhutan.
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