India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the power sector, with discussions focusing on hydropower development, cross-border electricity trade, transmission connectivity, renewable energy, institutional cooperation and capacity building.
Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, held a bilateral meeting with Bhutan’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, H.E. Lyonpo Gem Tshering, in New Delhi. The two Ministers reviewed the progress of ongoing cooperation and discussed avenues for expanding collaboration across the energy sector.
The meeting reaffirmed the special and enduring partnership between India and Bhutan in the power sector, which has remained a cornerstone of the close bilateral relationship between the two countries.
During the discussions, the two sides reviewed cooperation across key areas of the power sector, including hydropower development, cross-border electricity trade, transmission connectivity, renewable energy, institutional cooperation and capacity building.
The Ministers also reviewed progress under the bilateral institutional mechanisms established to facilitate regular engagement and strengthen cooperation in the power sector.
Among the key hydropower projects discussed were Punatsangchhu-I, Punatsangchhu-II, Sankosh and Chukha.
Recognising the importance of energy cooperation in promoting sustainable development and regional energy security, both sides reiterated their commitment to deepen collaboration through continued dialogue, close coordination and timely implementation of mutually beneficial initiatives.
Shri Manohar Lal reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to supporting the long-standing India-Bhutan partnership in the power sector. H.E. Lyonpo Gem Tshering appreciated India’s continued support and conveyed Bhutan’s commitment to further expanding the energy partnership.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both Ministers expressing satisfaction over the progress achieved in bilateral energy cooperation and reaffirming their shared resolve to further strengthen the India-Bhutan partnership for the benefit of both countries.
