Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dr Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud’s official visit to Bhutan from October 7-10 marked a significant step in enhancing judicial cooperation between the neighbouring countries. CJI Chandrachud met with the Chief Justice of Bhutan, Lyonpo Chogyal Dago Rigdzin, where they presided over the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fortifying bilateral legal and judicial ties.
The MoUs include agreements between the Supreme Courts of both nations to enhance judicial cooperation and collaborations between the National Judicial Academy (Bhopal) and the Bhutan National Legal Institute. The agreements further focus on legal education, research, and strengthening arbitration and mediation frameworks, highlighting the growing judicial collaboration between India and Bhutan.
During his visit, CJI Chandrachud graced the Third Convocation Ceremony of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck (JSW) School of Law and delivered a keynote address at the Distinguished Speakers’ Forum 2024. His visit also included high-level discussions with Bhutan’s King and Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck and meetings with Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, emphasizing the unique and enduring friendship between the two countries.
The visit follows Princess Wangchuck’s trip to India in August 2023, underscoring the continuous high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan. Both sides have laid out a robust framework for future cooperation in the legal sector, reaffirming the strong ties characterized by mutual respect and understanding.
