THIMPHU, Bhutan – Thailand and Bhutan have signed three cooperation agreements in healthcare, clean energy, and agricultural finance to enhance economic opportunities and promote sustainable development. Government Spokesperson Ekkapob Pianpises announced that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul attended the signing ceremony at the Pemako Hotel in Thimphu, Bhutan, on October 31, 2026.
The first agreement between the two countries’ health ministries focuses on universal health coverage, disease prevention, medical personnel development, and research. It also promotes digital healthcare, telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and referrals of Bhutanese patients to Thai public hospitals. The second agreement between Thailand’s Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) and Bhutan Development Bank Limited (BDBL) supports green financing for sustainable agriculture, credit risk assessment, international money transfers, and trade in agricultural and community products.
The third agreement involves Thailand’s Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA), Bhutan’s Ministry of Finance, and NORION Renewable Energy Limited. It provides technical assistance to review the feasibility study and detailed design of Bhutan’s 100-megawatt Tareythang Agri-Solar Project. The spokesperson stated that the agreements demonstrate Thailand’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and delivering tangible benefits to both countries. These initiatives also complement the Thailand–Bhutan Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027, to expand trade and investment opportunities and support sustainable economic growth. (NNT)
