India's role as Bhutan's closest partner extends beyond mere support; it serves as a source of inspiration, according to Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Bhutan's Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Employment. Speaking at the inaugural session of the 29th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit 2024 in Delhi on Monday, Dorji emphasized the strong trust and shared values between the two nations, highlighting India as an enabler of Bhutan's aspirations.
"India's role as Bhutan's closest partner is not only a pillar of support but also an inspiration. The trust, collaboration, and shared values between our two countries make India an enabler of Bhutan's aspirations," Dorji stated. He further elaborated on India's positive influence, saying, "Beyond herself, India enables opportunities, facilitates connections and engagements for us. It is this spirit of collaboration and mutual growth that excites the two countries."
Dorji described the CII Partnership Summit as a testament to India's leadership in fostering innovation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity across Asia and the world. He also acknowledged India's emergence as a global leader under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that India stands not only as a trusted neighbor but also as a partner in Bhutan's journey of growth and transformation.
"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has emerged as a global leader for countries like Bhutan. India stands not only as a trusted neighbour but also as a partner in our journey of growth and transformation, offering both inspiration and support as we pursue our aspirations," Dorji emphasized. He further highlighted Bhutan's commitment to becoming a high-income nation with Gross National Happiness (GNH), stating, "Leveraging this partnership, Bhutan has embarked on a transformative care strategic plan to evolve into a high income, Gross National Happiness, economic central Environment Initiative."
Dorji encouraged investors seeking opportunities in the region to explore Bhutan's futuristic city project, which he presented as an unparalleled potential investment opportunity. "My pitch here is this for investors thriving in India or seeking opportunities in the region, the futuristic city project at Bhutan offers unparalleled potential. We invite you to visit Bhutan and explore the possibility opportunity to partner in an initiative that seamlessly aligns profitability with purpose creating an economical design to connect high-value industries," he said.
The 29th CII Partnership Summit brought together a diverse group of participants, including 61 participating countries, 30 global speakers, and 11 international ministers. The summit aimed to foster productive partnerships and global cooperation, striving towards a shared vision for a sustainable and prosperous future.
Alongside Bhutan, other nations also emphasized their commitment to collaboration with India. Qatar's Minister of State of Foreign Trade, Ahmed Mohammed Al Sayed, highlighted his country's strong economic diversification strategy during the summit. "Qatar has positioned itself as a strong avenue for economic diversification with our development strategy with metro and highway projects with industries. Logistics, IT and digital transformation in public and private sectors are our focus," he said.
Al Sayed noted Qatar's "strong partnership" with India, recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Qatar in February this year. "This visit highlights the importance of our bilateral relations and led a deeper cooperation," he said. He further emphasized the robust trade ties between the two nations, stating that the trade volume between Qatar and India exceeded USD 14 billion in 2023, making India Qatar's second-largest trading partner.
Al Sayed concluded by expressing Qatar's commitment to strengthening its partnership with India for mutual benefit, saying, "The partnership between Qatar and India represents long-term strategic allies that we are committed to advancing and strengthening together. Our unique position allows us to energize our collaboration and achieve significant progress in the near future. Together, we can unlock even greater potential driving innovation, trade and investment for the benefit of our people."
Myanmar's representative also shared his country's perspective on economic cooperation with India. U Tin Oo, Deputy Minister of Commerce, emphasized the complementary strengths of both economies. "Our economies possess complementary strengths; Myanmar with its rich agricultural assets and India with its technological innovation and manufacturing expertise," he said.
He expressed gratitude towards India for its technical assistance and Capacity Building Initiative, which have significantly contributed to Myanmar's trade development agenda and improved institutional capabilities. U Tin Oo also highlighted the importance of diversifying partnerships, exploring new opportunities for collaboration, and addressing challenges like trade barriers and supply chain issues.
