India-Bhutan Bilateral Ties through MoUs dealing rail links for cross-border connectivity

The MoU provides for the establishment of two proposed rail links between India and Bhutan, including the Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail link and the Banarhat-Samtse rail link, and their implementation modalities, it said.

 India has cross-border rail links with many of its neighbours like B’desh, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan as well, apart from Bhutan. India believes in such links not only for trade but for regional harmony also.

In addition to this, India is actively involved in regional infrastructure projects that aim to enhance connectivity with countries in West Asia, Europe, and Africa. Projects like the joint railway network in West Asia and the proposed corridor linking India, the Middle East, and Europe via rail and waterways demonstrate India’s commitment to expanding its rail links internationally.

India believes that the development of these rail links can help boost bilateral trade ties between the two nations by improving transportation efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing connectivity. For many years now, the Indian Railways has been a leading avenue for offering the government’s assistance to its strategic partners.

In conclusion, the development of rail links between two nations plays a crucial role in fetching many benefits such as enhancing bilateral trade ties by improving transportation efficiency, reducing costs, increasing market accessibility, fostering cultural exchange, and creating economic opportunities through infrastructure development.