Delhi, In Delhi, Lieutenant General Batu Tshering, Chief Operations Officer of the Royal Bhutan Army, on Monday met and held talks with Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, focusing on promoting India-Bhutan strategic partnership. Regarding this meeting, officials said that during this time the discussion focused on enhancing the strategic partnership and strong bond of friendship between the two neighboring countries. Both sides also discussed the regional security situation.

Lieutenant General Tshering began his six-day visit to India on Saturday. The purpose of this visit is to promote bilateral military cooperation and explore new avenues for defense cooperation.

India supports Bhutan's claim on Doklam plateau

In 2017, Indian and Chinese armies faced off for 73 days at the Doklam tri-junction when China tried to extend the road in the area claimed by Bhutan. The India-China standoff in the Doklam plateau has also given rise to fears of a major conflict between the two neighbours. Bhutan had said that the area belongs to it and India has supported Bhutan's claim.

'Strategic relations between friendly countries will be further strengthened'

Over the past few years, Bhutan and China have been looking for an early solution to their growing border dispute. A statement on Saturday said, "This visit of Lieutenant General Batu Tshering paves the way for continued cooperation between the two armies. This visit will further strengthen the strategic relations between the two friendly countries and increase their cooperation in matters of mutual interest."

Guard of honour given in South Block

Earlier, Lieutenant General Batu Tshering, Chief Operation Officer (COO) of the Royal Bhutan Army, was given a guard of honour in South Block on Monday. He was welcomed by Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. During this, both the officers shook hands. Earlier, Lieutenant General Battu Tshering laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in Delhi and paid tribute to the martyred heroes. Lieutenant General Battu Tshering is on an official visit to India till February 6.