A new Indo-Bhutan Friendship treaty came into force today, following the exchange of Instruments of Ratification between the two governments in Thimphu.

The new treaty, an updated version of the Indo-Bhutan treaty of 1949, enables Bhutan to have more say in its foreign policy and defence matters.

The main changes were made in articles 2 and 6 of the old treaty. Articles 3 and 4 that have become “obsolete” have been done away with.

New articles that “reflect the contemporary nature of the relationship between India and Bhutan” have been included.

Article 2 of the updated treaty, signed by Bhutan crown prince Jigme Wangchuck and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, says: “In keeping with the abiding ties of close friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and India, the two governments shall cooperate closely with each other on issues relating to their national interests. Neither government shall allow the use of its territory for activities harmful to the national security and interest of the other.

According to Article 4 of the new treaty, Bhutan can “ import arms, ammunitions, machines, and warlike material required or desired for strength and welfare”.

Article 4 of the old treaty, according to which India has to return thirty-two square mile of its territory in Dewangiri to Bhutan” has been removed considering the issue has been sorted out.