Great future awaits Bhutan

BT’s Tshering Chuki Gyamtsho talks to India’s ambassador to Bhutan, Pavan K. Varma, about Bhutan’s political transition and Indo-Bhutan friendship
What is your view on Bhutan’s transition to democracy?
Bhutan’s transition to democracy is probably unfolding in the most unique circumstances where a sovereign has willed his people to make the transition to a democratic constitutional monarchy. I can’t think of many other instances in history where people, because of their love and respect for the monarchy, have to be persuaded almost against their will to embrace democracy. It’s a great tribute to the visions of Their Majesties. I have no doubt that this transition will be successful.
How do you think this transition will affect the Indo-Bhutan relationship?
The secret to this special nature of Indo-Bhutan relationship is the exceptional amount of goodwill that underlines it. This is a relationship which is historic and time-tested. It is a relationship based on genuine affection and respect. Therefore, this relationship will only be further strengthened with the advent of democracy. India is the world’s largest democracy and I have no doubt that it will grow even stronger in bonds of friendship with the world’s smallest democracy.
How would you define the Indo-Bhutan relationship?
It is special because of a commitment at the highest level cutting across the entire political spectrum in India to strengthen, reinforce and make it even stronger. That is the aspect of this relationship. From that historic day of September 25, 1958, when Jawaharlal Nehru came to Bhutan, from that day onward this special relationship has grown from strength to strength. Today I am happy to say that our bilateral interaction covers almost every vital aspect of cooperation.
As an Indian, how do you look at India’s journey into 60 years of independence?
I look upon it with pride. Not because everything we set out to achieve has been achieved but because if you draw up a balance sheet I think there are reasons for us to feel some level of satisfaction. If you were to ask me what are the specifics of this balance sheet of achievement, I would say firstly democracy has come as a way of life. It is an exceptionally important instrument in a country of great economic disparities. It provides people a stake in the system; it gives them the sense that they have a voice in the making of the nation. It is in many ways a safety valve and along with democracy there has been progressive economic development in India. On the whole, it has been an exciting journey not without its ups and downs. India has emerged as one of the most important countries in the world.
What lessons can Bhutan learn from the democratic experiment of India?
We are not there to provide lessons. Each country is unique and must follow its own trajectory toward political revolutions. Infact, I would venture to say that there are many lessons India can learn from Bhutan. I can only say that Bhutan’s resolve to become a constitution democratic monarchy will succeed.
What are some of the pitfalls of democracy that Bhutan should be wary about?
No country can seek to guide another country in terms of the other country’s journey. It’s not for India to say what the pitfalls are. I personally see no pitfalls.
What are your views on Bhutan’s evolving politics?
I see great strengths in Bhutan. Firstly, Bhutan is a remarkable country in terms of human resource. I have rarely seen such a high degree of cerebral content in the educated lot anywhere in the world. In addition, Bhutan has a great gift of one of the world’s most sagacious monarchy. Bhutan has a democratically elected government which has a great number of experienced ministers at the helm of important areas. I see a great deal of energy which is always an aspect for a democratic transition. People are committed to the goal of democracy and this commitment overwrites any transition between different institutions of democracy. There is a great deal of patriotism and commitment to the nation.
If you were to address Bhutan’s elected leaders (MPs) what would you tell them?
It is unlikely that I will be addressing the MPs but I greatly benefit by interacting with them. I think they are great patriots and they are genuinely concerned whether on the ruling benches or the opposition. They are concerned about the welfare and development of Bhutan. I would convey to them only one message. You are members of a great country and that country’s destiny is in your hands. Fulfill that destiny.