Ceremonial reception for R-Day chief guest Bhutan King

Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who has been invited as the chief guest for this year’s Republic Day parade, was given a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi Friday morning.

He was received by President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

He inspected the guard of honour and also met members of the Indian Cabinet.

Accompanied by Queen Jetsun Pema, the Bhutan King is on a eight-day state visit to India. He also paid floral tributes at Rajghat, the memorial of Father of The Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

Later today, the Bhutan King will call on the President and meet Prime Minister Dr Singh.

During his visit, he will also hold talks with Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj.

The King’s visit will contribute to further strengthening and expanding the close bilateral relations between India and Bhutan.

The unique and special relations between the two neighbouring countries are characterized by everlasting friendship, deep understanding and mutual trust.

Image: Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck speaks with India's PM Singh in New Delhi on Friday

Photograph: B Mathur/Reuters