The Governments of India and the Royal Government of Bhutan have today signed the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty. This Treaty updates the Treaty which was signed in Darjeeling on 8th August 1949.
The signing of the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty marks a historic moment in our relations with Bhutan. The Treaty reflects our mutual desire to enhance our relationship to an even higher level of cooperation and goodwill to meet the aspirations of our two
peoples for a better life.
The updated Treaty reiterates that there shall be perpetual peace and friendship between India and Bhutan. It removes provisions which have become obsolete over time. It includes fresh provisions for consolidating and expanding economic cooperation for mutual
and long-term benefit, and cooperation in the fields of culture, education, health, sports, and science and technology. It does not envisage a change in the treatment of nationals of both countries, or in the free trade regime that we have. The Treaty commits
both countries to cooperate closely with each other on issues relating to their national interests, and not allow the use of their territories for activities harmful to the national security and interest of the other.
Over several decades, India's relations with Bhutan have been an enduring element of our foreign policy. These relations, based on the foundation of shared interests and mutually beneficial cooperation, have become an exemplary model of good-neighbourly relations.
They symbolize our belief that the people of South Asia share a common destiny. India-Bhutan relations are today characterised by maturity, trust, respect and understanding, and joint endeavours in ever-expanding areas of activity.
The Government of India deeply values the contribution made by the Fourth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, to the consolidation of India-Bhutan relations. The signing of the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty today opens a new era in the
further deepening and strengthening of this unique and special relationship under the reign of the Fifth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
New Delhi
8 February 2007