The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Prime Minister Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay met Ambassador of Singapore to Bhutan Lim Thuan Kuan, at the Gyalyong Tshogkhang on October 3, 2013.
Mr. Kuan is on his first visit to Bhutan after being appointed as Singapore’s Ambassador to Bhutan.
Lyonchhen expressed that he had great admiration for Singapore and said these visits are significant in further strengthening the relations between the two countries. Lyonchhen said that the existing friendship between Bhutan and Singapore has grown ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Republic of Singapore in September 2002.
Lyonchhen told the ambassador that Bhutan and Singapore could learn from each other’s experiences since the two countries share many commonalities and face similar challenges.
The meeting highlighted on crucial incentives of development like enhancing Information and Communication Technology (ICT), provision of financial and technical support for progressing ICT and human resource development in Bhutan.
Lyonchhen expressed his gratitude to the Government of Singapore by saying that RGoB has greatly benefitted from the experience and expertise of Singapore through the volunteer program since 2001. Lyonchhen asserted that the work ethics and conduct of the Singaporean volunteers have been exemplary.
The ambassador said that he appreciated the sentiments shared and thanked Lyonchhen for thinking highly of his country and the government of Singapore.
Lyonchhen added that he looked forward to working with Singapore and said that Bhutan will closely cooperate with Singapore on multilateral front in the years to come.
The new Ambassadors of Austria and Turkey also called on Lyonchhen earlier during the week on October 2, 2013.
Austrian Ambassador Bernhard Wrabetz, conveyed to Lyonchhen the greetings of his country and said that it gave him great satisfaction to see Bhutan and Austria enjoying a flourishing bilateral relationship ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations 25 years ago. He said that he would do his utmost to solidify the long-standing partnership existing between the two nations.
Mr. Wrabetz and Lyonchhen also discussed on mutual areas of interest like tourism, private sector expansion, good governance, energy efficient use and agriculture development.
Lyonchhen thanked the ambassador and said that he appreciated the continued support and goodwill Austria was willing to provide. He said that relying on steadfast friends have benefitted Bhutan immensely. Lyonchhen said that Bhutan hoped to receive the benefit of similar cooperation and support.
During his meeting with the Ambassador of Turkey, Lyonchhen welcomed and congratulated Mr. Huseyin Muftuoglu and said that he was delighted to have the new ambassador meeting him soon after assuming office. The ambassador said that Bhutan was a very beautiful country and the hospitality he received from the people was greatly appreciated.
Lyonchhen thanked the ambassador for the views expressed said that he wished to develop stronger ties by working closely with Turkey in the next five years. The ambassador assured Lyonchhen that he would work sincerely and in his best interests to help the people of Bhutan.
