The government spokesperson revealed that Thailand and Bhutan are advancing cooperation in three areas: enhancing public health, supporting clean energy, and agricultural finance, to create economic opportunities and sustainably improve the quality of life for the people of both countries.
At 09:30 local Bhutan time on 31 October 2026, one hour behind Thailand, at Pemako Hotel in Thimphu, Bhutan, Mr. Ekaphop Pianpiset, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul participated in the signing ceremony and exchange of three cooperation documents between Thailand and Bhutan, which comprised:
1. A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in public health between the Ministries of Public Health of both countries, focusing on developing universal health coverage systems, disease prevention and control, medical personnel training, and medical research. It also expands cooperation in digital medicine, telemedicine, AI applications, and the referral of Bhutanese patients to public hospitals in Thailand to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.
2. A continuous Memorandum of Understanding between the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) and Bhutan Development Bank Limited (BDBL) aimed at promoting financial cooperation, especially green loans supporting sustainable agriculture, developing credit risk assessment systems, linking international money transfer services, and encouraging trade in agricultural products and community goods. This seeks to increase access to financial services and expand business channels for farmers and small entrepreneurs in both countries.
3. A Memorandum of Understanding on clean energy cooperation among the Economic Cooperation and Neighboring Countries Development Office (ECNDO) of Bhutan’s Ministry of Finance and Norion Renewable Energy Limited to provide academic assistance in reviewing feasibility studies and detailed design for the 100-megawatt solar agricultural project in Tareytang, Bhutan. This will support clean energy development and sustainable growth.
The spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office said the three cooperation agreements reflect the Thai government’s commitment to strengthening relations with Bhutan and promoting concrete cooperation in health, energy, and the economy to benefit the people of both countries.
“The Thai government aims to build on strong ties with Bhutan to deliver tangible benefits to the people, especially by creating economic opportunities and improving quality of life, alongside pushing for the Thailand-Bhutan Free Trade Agreement (FTA), targeted to take effect from 1 January 2027, to expand trade and investment opportunities and foster sustainable joint economic growth,” said the spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office.
