The 13th annual consultation between Bhutan and Japan on Economic Cooperation was held in New Delhi, India on August 28.

A press release from the Bhutan embassy in Delhi stated that the two sides discussed the achievements of the 11th Plan, integration of the SDGs into the 12th Plan and its objectives, status of Japanese assistance to Bhutan, Bilateral Development Assistance Needs Survey, and other areas of cooperation. The two sides reviewed the ongoing projects and deliberated on the prioritised projects submitted by the government.

Instituted in 2006, the annual consultations between Bhutan and Japan on economic cooperation serves as a meaningful and purposeful platform for the two governments to review and exchange views on bilateral economic cooperation.

Acting head of the department of bilateral affairs, Phuntsho Drukpa conveyed the Government’s deep appreciation to the Government of Japan for its steadfast support to Bhutan’s socio-economic development for many years and for its assurances of continued support in the years ahead.

Ambassador of Japan to Bhutan, Kenji Hiramatsu, hosted a lunch for the Bhutanese delegation at the Japanese Embassy.

Phuntsho Drukpa, led the Bhutanese delegation comprising officials from the ministries of agriculture and human settlement, gross national happiness commission, national land commission, national commission for women and children, and the Bhutan embassy, New Delhi.

The Japanese side was led by Minister (Economic and Development), Embassy of Japan, New Delhi, Kenko Sone, and officials from JICA Bhutan Office including the Chief Representative of JICA Bhutan Office, Koji Yamada.

Staff Reporter