External Affairs Minister first overseas visit

Foreign Minister first overseas visit

Question: External Affairs Minister of India made a two day visit to which nation in the first week of June 2019?
(a) Nepal
(b) Maldives
(c) China
(d) Bhutan
Answer: (d)
Related Facts:

  • Newly appointed External Affairs Minister and former External Affairs Secretary Dr. S. Jaishankar visited Bhutan on 7-8 June, 2019.
  • This is his first visit abroad as the foreign External Affairs Minister.
  • External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Bhutan’s top leadership, including Prime Minister Lotay Tshering on June 7 and discussed important elements of the bilateral ties with emphasis on development partnership and cooperation in the hydropower sector.
  • He also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings during his talks with Prime Minister Lotay Tshering.
  • Bhutan has been a close ally of India and bilateral ties between the two countries are on an upswing in the last few years.
  • India and Bhutan share a unique and time tested bilateral relationship, characterized by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding.
  • During the visit, the two sides discussed entire gamut of bilateral relations, including the upcoming high-level exchanges, economic development and hydro-power cooperation.
  • Bhutan was Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first overseas visit after assuming charge in 2014.

Links:
https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/31413/External_Affairs_Ministers_visit_to_Bhutan_June_0708_2019
http://ddnews.gov.in/national/foreign-minister-dr-s-jaishankar-bhutan-first-overseas-visit
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-bhutan-his-first-overseas-trip-as-foreign-minister-2049078