Colombo, 06 September 2026 – Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya returned to Sri Lanka yesterday, 05 September, after successfully concluding a significant official visit to Bhutan. The visit, which commenced on August 31, saw the Prime Minister participate in the 2026 Global Conscious Food Systems Summit (GCFSS) and engage in high-level bilateral discussions aimed at fortifying the enduring friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Prime Minister Amarasuriya arrived back at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, having flown aboard Royal Bhutan Airlines – KB 200, bringing to a close a diplomatic tour that has further cemented the ties between the two nations.
High-Level Diplomatic Engagements and Summit Participation
During her official visit, Dr. Amarasuriya actively participated in the Global Conscious Food Systems Summit, a crucial international forum addressing sustainable food systems. Beyond the summit, her itinerary included several pivotal bilateral meetings that underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional partnership.
- The Prime Minister held an audience with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, an interaction that reinforced the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries.
- Significant discussions were also held with Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, covering various aspects of mutual interest and future collaboration.
- Further high-level engagements included a meeting with Ms. Yeezang De Thapa, Bhutan’s Minister of Education and Skills Development, indicating a focus on human capital development.
- Dr. Amarasuriya also met with senior representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other international stakeholders and high-ranking diplomats, broadening the scope of her discussions.
Cultural Immersion and People-to-People Connections
The Prime Minister’s visit was not limited to official discussions. She also took the opportunity to experience Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, participating in several cultural activities:
- A visit to the revered Tashichho Dzong Monastery in Thimphu.
- Exploration of the Royal Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s exquisite weaving traditions.
- A tour of the historic Semtokha Dzong Fortress.
- A visit to the National Museum of Bhutan in Paro, offering insights into the country’s past.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations Across Key Sectors
This official visit served as a vital opportunity to further strengthen the bilateral relations and friendship between Sri Lanka and Bhutan. Discussions and agreements centered on enhancing cooperation across a multitude of areas, including:
- Education: Fostering academic exchanges and collaborative learning initiatives.
- Culture: Promoting cultural understanding and exchanges between the two nations.
- Environment: Collaborating on conservation efforts and environmental sustainability.
- Sustainable Development: Sharing expertise and working together on achieving sustainable development goals.
- People-to-People Connections: Encouraging greater interaction and understanding between the citizens of both countries.
The successful conclusion of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya’s visit is expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration and a more robust partnership between Sri Lanka and Bhutan in the years to come, benefiting both nations.
Source: Prime Minister’s Media Division. Read original document