Not just a leader — “Modi is a spiritual master,” says Bhutan PM

Speaking to WION news channel, the Bhutanese leader termed the Indian Prime Minister as his “elder brother” and his presence at the Global Peace Prayer Festival is “important”.

He told the news channel: "When you talk of elder brother, elder brother takes care of the family, and he is very caring for me. He's loving to me. In his presence, I feel the warmth of brotherhood. And therefore, very early on, as early as 2014 when we first met, I saw him as an elder brother, mentor, simply because he is such an exemplary leader, a political leader and a spiritual master, that through his action, I get a lot of lessons. So he's a mentor."

Meanwhile, Modi arrived in Bhutan on Tuesday.

Speaking at an event in Bhutan to mark the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan at Changlimethang Celebration Ground in Thimphu, Modi said the king played a pivotal role in strengthening the friendship between India and Bhutan.

He noted that the foundation laid by the king continues to nourish the flourishing ties between the two nations.

On behalf of all Indians, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt greetings to the king and wished him good health and a long life.

“India and Bhutan are not just connected by borders, they are  connected by cultures. Our relationship is one of values, emotions, peace and  progress”, Modi said.

Recalling his first foreign visit to Bhutan after assuming office in 2014, the Prime Minister shared that the memories of that visit still fill him with emotion.

He underlined the strength and richness of India-Bhutan relations, noting that both countries have stood together in times of difficulty, faced challenges jointly, and are now moving forward together on the path of progress and prosperity.

Modi remarked that His Majesty The King is leading Bhutan to new heights, and the partnership of trust and development between India and Bhutan stands as a significant model for the entire region.