Bhutan welcomes Thai PM

BANGKOK, July 19 (TNA) – Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay welcomed his Thai counterpart Gen Prayut Chan-ocha during his two-day visit to Bhutan to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in all aspects, especially in trade and investment, tourism, public health, and national development. The Thai prime minister had an audience with His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and will preside over the opening of the Royal Thai Honorary Consulate-General office in Thimphu. He will later attend a gala dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of Bhutan at the Royal Banquet Hall, Prime Minister’s Office. Thailand and Bhutan have established diplomatic relations in 1989. The two countries have had close and cordial relations at all levels, and have strong Buddhist, and socio-cultural ties, especially the monarchy which is a spiritual center of people in both Thailand and Bhutan. Bhutan perceives Thailand as a role model for national development, especially the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy which is in line with Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH). (TNA)