External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar recently met with Officer Trainees from the 2024 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), accompanied by two Bhutanese colleagues.
EAM Jaishankar’s interaction with the new IFS batch underscores India’s commitment to fostering diplomatic excellence as part of its broader international engagement strategy. His address to the trainees focused on the pivotal role of foreign policy in shaping India’s global standing, while also discussing the evolving responsibilities of diplomats in the 21st century.
Delighted to meet Officer Trainees from the 2024 batch of Indian Foreign Service, along with two Bhutanese colleagues today.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 3, 2024
Shared experiences of diplomatic service and foreign policy. Wished them best in their careers and future endeavours. pic.twitter.com/ljl1lnEKJ7
Jaishankar’s engagement also highlighted the strong bilateral ties between India and Bhutan. Both nations share high-level exchanges, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Bhutan in 2019 and Bhutan’s King and Queen making multiple visits to India. The most recent high-level visit occurred in November 2023, when Bhutan’s King met senior Indian officials, further solidifying their relationship.
Beyond political relations, India and Bhutan have also deepened cooperation in various sectors, particularly in technology. Notable collaborations include the deployment of the RuPay card and Bhutan’s adoption of the BHIM app, as well as the launch of the ‘India-Bhutan SAT’ satellite in 2022. Additionally, India has supported Bhutan’s educational sector by addressing shortages of STEM teachers, fostering growth in digital, technological, and space-related sectors.
These multifaceted efforts reflect the enduring strength and deepening partnership between India and Bhutan.
