India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri embarks on his inaugural international trip to Bhutan starting Friday, marking a significant diplomatic initiative since assuming office. In the capital, Thimphu, Misri's agenda includes meetings with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Foreign Minister DN Dhungyel, and Foreign Secretary Pema Choden, among other key officials.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that Misri's visit underscores India's steadfast commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, prioritizing relations with neighboring countries.

"Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's official visit to Bhutan from July 19-20 marks his first international engagement since assuming office," the MEA announced.

Foreign Secretary Misri's Visit Highlights India-Bhutan Relations

During his upcoming visit, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to meet with His Majesty The King of Bhutan and hold discussions with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, and other senior officials of the Royal Government of Bhutan. Additionally, Misri and Bhutan's foreign secretary will jointly chair talks on India-Bhutan development cooperation.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that this visit is part of the regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan, reflecting India's strong commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' Policy.

Earlier, Bhutan's Prime Minister was among the leaders from neighboring countries who attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony and the Union council of ministers.

Misri's visit to Thimphu occurs amidst ongoing efforts by China and Bhutan to resolve their longstanding boundary dispute, which holds implications for India's security interests, particularly at the Doklam tri-junction.

The MEA also noted that Misri and Bhutan's foreign secretary will jointly chair talks on India-Bhutan development cooperation, reinforcing the countries' strong bilateral ties.

"This visit underscores the ongoing tradition of frequent high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan, reaffirming India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' Policy," the MEA stated.

Last year, Bhutan's then Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji held talks in Beijing with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where Bhutan affirmed its adherence to the one-China principle and expressed readiness to resolve the boundary issue with China expeditiously.

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