Strengthening Ties Amid Tensions: Indo-Bhutan Defense Talks Amidst China Tensions
Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi discusses defense cooperation with Bhutan's Lt Gen Batoo Tshering amidst regional tensions and China's assertiveness. The talks focused on strategic defense cooperation, with emphasis on the pivotal Doklam plateau. The visit occurs amid India's monitoring of Bhutan-China boundary negotiations affecting security interests.
- Country:
- India
In a significant development, Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi engaged in comprehensive discussions with Bhutanese military leader Lt Gen Batoo Tshering on Tuesday. Their talks aimed at bolstering defense collaborations against the continuing military assertiveness exhibited by China in the region.
Commencing his four-day diplomatic mission on Monday, Gen Dwivedi's visit is critical as it follows India's Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan. The visit underscores the growing importance of Indo-Bhutan strategic relations, especially following the 2017 Doklam standoff.
The evolving boundary negotiations between Bhutan and China are under India's watchful eyes, given the potential impact on New Delhi's security interests in the Doklam tri-junction. Both Bhutan and China have shown interest in expediting resolutions through a 'three-step roadmap' agreement initiated in October 2021.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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