Kaziranga, Assam: His Majesty, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan, graced the IORA Retreat in Assam's Kaziranga with his presence on Saturday. The royal arrival was met with a warm reception from prominent dignitaries, including Chandra Mohan Patowary, Assam's Minister of Environment and Forest, and Atul Bora, Assam's Minister of Agriculture.

A day before his arrival in Kaziranga, King Wangchuck engaged in a productive meeting with Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma. The encounter was marked by mutual respect and a shared vision, underscoring the deep-rooted ties between the two neighboring nations. Chief Minister Sarma conveyed the enthusiasm among the people to reinforce the Hon'ble Prime Minister's doctrine of "Neighborhood First," expressing his privilege to meet His Majesty.

During their discussions, the two leaders delved into various topics, including infrastructure partnerships, healthcare cooperation, shared spiritual heritage, and fostering people-to-people connections. Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the significance of King Wangchuck's visit as a testament to the enduring bonds between the two nations, evident in academic collaborations, infrastructure projects, healthcare initiatives, shared spiritual values, and cultural exchanges.

King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck's three-day tour of Assam commenced with a visit to the Kamakhya Temple atop the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati. Dressed in traditional Buddhist attire, the King paid his respects at the temple's sanctum sanctorum, performed circumambulation, and lit earthen lamps in reverence to the Goddess. The royal guest was also presented with a replica of the Kamakhya Temple.

Upon his arrival at Lokpriya Gopinath International Airport, Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, welcomed King Wangchuck with a traditional Assamese 'Gamosa' (scarf), and the two exchanged greetings. The King is accompanied by senior officials from the Royal Government of Bhutan.

In the course of his visit, the Bhutanese King is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs. Additionally, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and senior Indian government officials will pay their respects to King Wangchuck. The Bhutanese King is also set to embark on a journey to Maharashtra as part of his diplomatic mission.

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