Published: 11:57 PM, 16 September 2026
Bhutan, BD pledge deeper cooperation in high-level talks
Diplomatic and economic relations between Dhaka and Thimphu received fresh momentum yesterday as Bhutanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Dasho Karma Hamu Dorjee, held a bilateral meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The engagement commenced with Ambassador Dorjee formalizing congratulations to the State Minister on assuming his official responsibilities, followed by broad deliberations covering key bilateral matters, trade potential and regional integration.
A central focal point of the meeting was Bangladesh's strategic interest in contributing to Bhutan's flagship economic initiative, the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). State Minister Kobir underscored Dhaka's readiness to extend technical and human resource support to facilitate the development of the high-profile project, citing Bangladesh's capacity to supply highly qualified professionals, skilled specialists, and semi-skilled workforce across key development sectors.
Highlighting the necessity of enhanced regional cooperation, the State Minister invoked the foundational vision of martyred President Ziaur Rahman regarding South Asian solidarity. He formally called for Bhutan's diplomatic backing to reactivate and revitalize the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), emphasizing that a functioning regional mechanism remains essential for addressing common socio-economic challenges across the bloc.
Dasho Karma Hamu Dorjee noted that the personal presence of the President of Bangladesh during the Royal stopover reflected the strong institutional and historical ties between the two friendly nations. Concluding the session, the Bhutanese envoy expressed gratitude for the ongoing facilitation provided by the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to sustained collaboration across diplomatic, economic and regional channels.
