Indian PM to visit Bhutan: foreign ministry

NEW DELHI–Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to Bhutan on Aug. 17-18, at the invitation of his counterpart Lotay Tshering, India's Ministry of External Affairs announced on Friday.

"The visit reflects the high priority that the government of India (GOI) attaches to its relations with Bhutan, India's trusted friend and neighbour.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Bhutan, very early in his second term, is in line with GoI's continued emphasis on its 'Neighbourhood First Policy'," said an official statement issued by the ministry.

During the visit, the Indian prime minister is expected to meet with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, former King of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and hold talks with host Prime Minister Tshering.