Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, has completed a visit to Bhutan focused on strengthening diplomatic, economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
The visit included meetings with Bhutanese leaders, announcements linked to regional energy cooperation, and support for education and media initiatives.
During the trip, Mr Green received an audience with His Majesty The King of Bhutan and met Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
Australian officials said the discussions reinforced cooperation between the two countries across development, connectivity and regional priorities.
A major focus of the visit was the Dorjilung Hydropower Project, which recently secured a US$515 million World Bank financing package. Australia said its support through the South Asia Regional Connectivity program helped pave the way for the project, which is expected to contribute to regional energy security and economic cooperation in South Asia.
The hydropower sector remains central to Bhutan’s economy, with the country exporting electricity to neighbouring India and investing heavily in renewable energy infrastructure. The Dorjilung project is viewed as part of Bhutan’s longer-term strategy to expand clean energy generation while supporting economic growth.
Education and digital inclusion were also highlighted during the visit. Mr Green attended the inauguration of a new multimedia laboratory at Changangkha Middle Secondary School in partnership with the Bhutan Foundation.
The initiative is expected to improve digital learning opportunities for students and support broader education access in Bhutan.
The visit also included meetings with representatives from the Bhutan Film Institute and Samuh, with discussions centred on cultural exchange and storytelling collaboration.
Australia also marked World Press Freedom Day by supporting the Journalists’ Association of Bhutan during the visit.
Australian officials said the trip provided an opportunity to engage with Australians living and working in Bhutan and to strengthen people-to-people links between the two countries.
Relations between Australia and Bhutan have expanded gradually in recent years through development cooperation, education partnerships and regional programs linked to sustainability and connectivity across South Asia.
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