In a remarkable display of medical cooperation and humanitarianism, Bangladesh and Bhutan are forging a deeper bond through a unique healthcare initiative.
The first country to officially recognize Bangladesh, Bhutan has long enjoyed a close diplomatic relationship with its neighbour, and now, the two nations are expanding their collaboration in the health sector, according to an official press release.
As a testament to this growing partnership, 'Bangabandhu International Plastic Surgery Camp' is currently underway in Thimphu, Bhutan, coinciding with the 77th birth anniversary of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, it said.
A team of 12 doctors from the Sheikh Hasina Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, led by Dr Samanta Lal Sen, is conducting a special surgery camp at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. These dedicated Bangladeshi doctors are performing complex operations related to burn injuries and plastic surgery, providing vital humanitarian services to the people of Bhutan, the release said.
Prime Minister Hasina, in recent discussions with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and prime minister, reaffirmed her commitment to expanding cooperation in the health sector. This surgical camp is a tangible demonstration of that commitment, aiming to improve healthcare services in Bhutan and eventually establish a burn unit in Thimphu.
King Wangchuck expressed his deep gratitude to PM Hasina and her government for their unwavering support. He warmly welcomed this act of humanitarian cooperation and hoped it would lead to further milestones in the bilateral relationship, focusing on the welfare of both nations.
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Thimphu played a pivotal role in organizing the event, hosting a special program on September 28 to celebrate the prime minister's birthday. Speaker of the National Assembly of Bhutan, Namgyel Wangchuck, attended as the chief guest.
During his welcome address, Bangladesh Ambassador Shibnath Roy remarked, "Through this camp, a unique example of healthcare cooperation between Bhutan and Bangladesh has been set, marking a new chapter in our relations."
The camp not only highlights the compassionate nature of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but also underscores her personal initiative to provide healthcare services in Bhutan and establish a burn unit in Thimphu, as stated by Dr. Samanta Lal Sen. Embassy Counsellor Sujan Debnath further highlighted Sheikh Hasina's international contributions, emphasizing the noble initiative's significance.