Bhutan has expressed interest in drawing on Sri Lanka’s experience and expertise to support its future development priorities, during a meeting between Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in Thimphu on Wednesday (2). The Premier had an audience with the King at the Tashichhodzong during her official visit to Bhutan. Discussions focused on Bhutan’s development priorities and opportunities to expand cooperation between the two countries. The two sides also discussed promoting bilateral investment, including the possibility of establishing an investment zone in Bhutan. 

Dr Amarasuriya held a bilateral meeting with the Bhutanese Prime Minister, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, in Thimphu. During the meeting held on Tuesday (1), the two leaders exchanged views on areas of mutual interest, including education, health, trade, tourism, air-connectivity, and people-to-people contacts. Both sides exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in addressing the impacts of climate change, combating deforestation, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable development. 

Also, Sri Lanka and Bhutan have explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in legal education through academic exchanges, joint research and the sharing of expertise and best practices. The discussions took place when Dr Amarasuriya visited the Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law on Wednesday. Particular attention was given to strengthening links between academic institutions, including opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, research collaboration and greater knowledge-sharing in legal and judicial education. The discussions also explored ways for the two countries to share experiences and best practices, with the aim of further developing legal education and professional training.