Sonam Tobgay was presented with the Decoration of Merit in Silver of the Republic of Austria by Katharina Wieser, the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Bhutan on November 22. This honour is bestowed upon individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Republic of Austria. At the award ceremony in Thimphu, Katharina Wieser remarked, “Sonam Tobgay represents the best of the Austrian-Bhutanese relationship: professionalism, high work ethics, personal commitment, and loyalty.”

Expressing his gratitude, he dedicated the decoration “to both countries, Bhutan and Austria, and to all loyal individuals for building long-lasting partnerships.” 

Sonam Tobgay (right in the picture) is the second Bhutanese citizen to receive this honour from the Republic of Austria for remarkable contributions to Austrian-Bhutanese relations. He has been associated with the Austrian Coordination Office in Thimphu since 2001, serving as the Head of Administration since 2013.