Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay jointly inaugurated a business event in Thimphu, Bhutan, marking the official launch of the roadshow for Advantage Assam 2.0: Investment and Infrastructure Summit 2025.
The event, held at the La Meridian Hotel, underscored the growing trade and infrastructure potential of Assam as a key hub in India’s Act East Policy.
In his address, CM Sarma highlighted Assam’s rising prominence as a gateway for South Asian trade and investment, inviting Bhutanese leadership and businesses to participate in the upcoming summit scheduled for February 25-26, 2025, in Guwahati. The summit, expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to attract investments and deepen regional partnerships. CM Sarma also extended a formal invitation to PM Tshering Tobgay to attend the summit and its accompanying cultural event, envisioning it as a milestone in strengthening ties between Assam and Bhutan.
Reflecting on the shared historical and cultural bonds between Assam and Bhutan, Sarma pointed to the ancient trade routes that once connected the two regions, facilitating exchanges of goods such as tea and silk while fostering interdependence. He identified key sectors for collaboration, paving the way for economic and social partnerships:
In energy cooperation, CM Sarma proposed leveraging Bhutan’s expertise in hydropower to bolster renewable energy initiatives in Assam, driving regional economic growth. For tourism and conservation, he suggested developing joint eco-tourism circuits linking Bhutan’s scenic landscapes with Assam’s iconic Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, alongside collaborative efforts in wildlife preservation.
Addressing healthcare, Sarma highlighted Assam’s extensive Cancer Care Network as a resource for Bhutanese patients, ensuring timely medical support. He further noted Assam’s educational opportunities, including reserved seats in government medical colleges for Bhutanese students and specialised nursing training programs to foster skill development across borders.
On agriculture and industry, CM Sarma encouraged trade in Bhutan’s agricultural products, such as maize and bamboo, with Assam’s growing ethanol and agro-industrial sectors, promising mutual economic growth.
Praising Bhutan’s leadership and progressive reforms, Sarma reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to regional collaboration for prosperity and stability. The event, attended by Bhutanese cabinet ministers, India’s Ambassador to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela, and prominent business leaders from both nations, set a strong foundation for enhanced economic cooperation and cultural exchange.
The Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit is expected to serve as a platform for forging transformative partnerships across South Asia, showcasing Assam’s growing infrastructure, investment potential, and strategic role in India’s regional development vision.
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