A delegation of nine World Bank Group Executive Directors concluded a five-day visit to Bhutan, reaffirming the institution's support for the country's development priorities. The group was accompanied by Mercy Tembon, World Bank Vice President and Corporate Secretary.
During their visit, the Executive Directors met with key figures in Bhutan, including His Majesty the King, the Prime Minister, and other senior government officials. They also engaged with development partners, ambassadors, and private sector representatives. Their itinerary included visits to World Bank-supported projects in Thimphu and Gelephu.
"Bhutan is globally known for its pristine nature and unique development philosophy," said Robert Bruce Nicholl, spokesperson of the delegation and Executive Director for Australia. "This is the world’s first carbon negative country, and it has made notable progress in reducing poverty and advancing human development."
The delegation explored various sites such as the National Center for Organic Agriculture and a market promoting Bhutanese products. In Gelephu, they visited a planned project site aimed at improving regional trade and connectivity.
Mercy Tembon emphasized the longstanding partnership between Bhutan and the World Bank: "The World Bank remains committed to help Bhutan achieve resilient and inclusive growth as envisioned in the kingdom’s 13th Five Year Plan while preserving its unique cultural values."
Cecile Fruman, Acting Country Director for Bhutan at the World Bank, stated that their program in Bhutan aligns with the Kingdom's ambitions to boost private investment, job creation, climate resilience, and infrastructure connectivity.
Param Iyer, representing Bhutan on the World Bank Group board as Host Executive Director of this visit noted: "It has been a rich and productive visit... The delegation is particularly noteworthy as its members collectively represent 92 countries on the board."
Starting July 1, 2025, a joint country representation will be established in Bhutan with a Country Manager representing all arms of the World Bank Group to offer comprehensive support.
The Executive Directors' delegation included Parameswaran Iyer, Abdelhak Bedjaoui, Beatrice Maser, Robert Nicholl, Teresa Solbes, Zainab Ahmed, Lonkhululeko Magagula, Marlene Nzengou, and Paul Bonmartin.