Assam CM greets Bhutan king on 46th birthday, highlights close ties

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday extended warm birthday greetings to Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on his 46th birthday, wishing him good health and a long life. In a message posted on social media platform X, the chief minister highlighted the deep and longstanding ties between Assam and Bhutan, rooted in shared history, culture and enduring goodwill, and said cooperation in trade, connectivity, education and regional security continues to strengthen the unique partnership between the two regions.

He noted that Assam’s geographic proximity to Bhutan gives the state a special role in bilateral interactions, with Guwahati and Assam’s border districts serving as key hubs for trade, education, healthcare and transit for Bhutanese citizens and goods. The message reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to nurturing these connections and fostering mutual understanding and shared prosperity.

India’s central government has historically underlined strong ties with Bhutan, participating in significant events and diplomatic engagements reflecting broader India–Bhutan cooperation. For instance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously delivered messages and attended celebrations marking important occasions involving the Bhutanese royal family.

Bhutan observes the king’s birthday as a public holiday, with schools, government offices and many businesses closed in his honour, reflecting the cultural respect and national significance of the day.