Displaying the special and “unique” status of Bhutan in India's foreign policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Sunday embark on a two-day visit to the Himalayan country, his first trip abroad since he took over three weeks ago.

Modi will be accompanied by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh. He will meet Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay during his visit, which will see the two sides exploring ways to boost their ties, particularly in trade and hydro-electricity. 

Modi will also address the joint session of the National Assembly and National Council of Bhutan and meet the Leader of the Opposition. The fact that the prime minister chose Bhutan as his first foreign destination assumes significance since China has lately intensified efforts to win it over.