Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Bhutan in strengthening its defence capabilities, including the provision of military hardware and assets. This assurance was conveyed during a meeting with Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Royal Bhutan Army, who is on a six-day official visit to India that began on February 2.
The Defence Ministry stated that Singh and Lt. Gen. Tshering discussed a range of issues concerning bilateral relations. “The Defence Minister reaffirmed India’s readiness to assist Bhutan in enhancing its defence preparedness, including the provision of equipment and assets, in alignment with Bhutan’s national priorities and India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy,” the Ministry said in a statement.
Lt. Gen. Tshering expressed his appreciation for India’s continued support, acknowledging its role in augmenting Bhutan’s defence capabilities and providing training for Royal Bhutan Army (RBA) personnel.
Lieutenant General Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer, Royal Bhutan Army called on General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff #CDS_India.
Discussions focused on enhancing #StrategicPartnership and strong bonds of friendship between India & Bhutan, with a focus on… pic.twitter.com/NWCUPOzcPj
— HQ IDS (@HQ_IDS_India) February 3, 2025
As part of his visit, Lt. Gen. Tshering met with General Anil Chauhan, India’s Chief of Defence Staff, on Monday. Their discussions emphasized enhancing the strategic partnership and deepening the bonds of friendship between India and Bhutan, with a focus on regional peace and defence cooperation.
Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh met Lt Gen Batoo Tshering, Chief Operations Officer, Royal Bhutan Army, to review ongoing #defencecooperation. Both reaffirmed commitment to strengthening strategic & security ties. Bhutan remains a key partner in India's… pic.twitter.com/lGo2LKsJfi
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) February 3, 2025
The COO also met with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, during which they reviewed ongoing defence collaboration and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic and security ties.
Lt. Gen. Tshering’s visit underscores the close and enduring defence partnership between India and Bhutan and provides an opportunity to further solidify bilateral relations in defence and security.
Team BharatShakti
