New Delhi

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar arrived in Bhutan on Thursday for a four-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy security and sustainable development.

The visit is seen as a significant step in deepening the longstanding partnership between India and Bhutan, marked by mutual trust and close collaboration across sectors.

During his visit, Lal called on Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to expanding cooperation in clean energy and sustainability.

He also held talks with Gem Tshering, focusing on enhancing ongoing hydropower collaboration and exploring new opportunities in renewable energy and regional power trade.

The two countries have further strengthened ties by establishing an enhanced bilateral institutional framework to facilitate regular coordination and review of joint initiatives in the power sector.

Key areas of cooperation include non-hydro renewable energy, cross-border electricity transmission, project financing, capacity building, and institutional partnerships.

On the sidelines of the visit, both sides signed the tariff protocol for the Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, marking another milestone in their hydropower partnership. The 1020-MW project was jointly inaugurated in November 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and has been exporting surplus power to India since September 2025.

Additionally, the two sides signed a methodology agreement for reactive energy accounting, aimed at improving grid stability, enhancing efficiency in cross-border electricity exchange, and streamlining bilateral power trade.

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The engagements during the visit are expected to open new avenues of cooperation, contributing to the long-term prosperity and energy security of both nations.