Bhutan is interested in signing a free trade agreement with Bangladesh

He stated that linking Bhutan’s special economic zone, Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), with the special economic zone in Kurigram allocated for Bhutanese investors would be mutually beneficial for both countries.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus welcomed the proposal, noting that Bangladesh and Bhutan could elevate bilateral relations through improved connectivity, trade, and investment. He urged both nations to explore all opportunities for expanding trade and investment.

The Bhutanese Prime Minister also shared his government’s plans to promote religious tourism, highlighting that Bangladeshi Buddhist monks could visit Bhutan, which would play a significant role in boosting tourism.

Tobgay mentioned Bhutan’s desire to leverage its hydropower potential for Bangladesh and expressed interest in welcoming Bangladeshi investment in Bhutan’s pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, he sought Bangladesh’s support in establishing fiber optic connectivity between the two countries.

The two leaders also discussed the Rohingya crisis, with Tobgay stating that Bhutan will participate in the full UN session on September 30 addressing the issue.

Praising Professor Yunus’s leadership, Tobgay remarked that Bangladesh is now “under the right leadership” and respectfully addressed him as “My Professor,” noting it as a personal tribute.

The Bhutanese Prime Minister also appreciated the design of Bangladesh’s new chancery building recently inaugurated in Thimphu, which was built under the theme “Bay of Bengal at the Foot of the Himalayas.”

During the meeting, Professor Yunus invited Tobgay to visit Bangladesh. The Prime Minister accepted the invitation and mentioned he would likely visit before Bangladesh’s national elections in February.