Bhutan Showcases Investment Vision at EU–Bhutan Business Forum and European Roadshow
Brussels, Belgium — January 2026 — Bhutan presented its long-term development vision at the EU–Bhutan Business Forum in Brussels, bringing together policymakers, investors, and international partners to explore opportunities linked to the country’s evolving economic strategy and the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).
The forum, held on January 26 in Brussels, was organised under the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative and hosted at European Union institutions, including engagements with the European Commission and the European Parliament.
It formed part of a broader programme of engagements across three European cities — Brussels, Frankfurt, and Prague — aimed at strengthening Bhutan’s partnerships with European institutions, financial organisations, and the private sector.
High-Level Participation and Institutional Dialogue
The forum brought together over 300 policymakers, investors, and business leaders from Europe and Bhutan, marking the first dedicated investment platform between the two partners.
The Bhutanese delegation was led by Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay, alongside senior government officials, representatives of Gelephu Mindfulness City, and private sector stakeholders.
The event also featured participation from EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela, as well as representatives of European institutions, financial organisations, and industry.
Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in areas such as:
- sustainable infrastructure
- green energy
- innovation and technology
- high-value and responsible tourism
Gelephu Mindfulness City at the Centre of Discussions
A central focus of the forum was Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan’s flagship development initiative aimed at creating a new model of urban development integrating economic growth, environmental sustainability, and spiritual well-being.
Participants were introduced to key components of the project, including:
- Gelephu International Airport
- redevelopment of the existing Gelephu town
- ecological corridors and climate-resilient planning
- cultural and spiritual centres
The initiative was presented as a platform for international collaboration and values-based investment, aligned with Bhutan’s long-term development vision.
Prime Minister Highlights Investment Priorities
In his address, Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay outlined Bhutan’s key priorities for international cooperation and investment.
He emphasised Bhutan’s commitment to:
- sustainable and climate-resilient development
- green energy and clean technologies
- digital innovation and knowledge-based industries
- high-value, low-impact tourism
- infrastructure development aligned with environmental and cultural preservation
The Prime Minister highlighted that Bhutan is seeking long-term partners who share its values and are willing to invest in projects that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and social well-being.
Expanding Bhutan–Europe Engagement
Following the Brussels forum, the Bhutanese delegation continued engagements in Frankfurt and Prague on January 28 and 29, where additional investor meetings and roadshows were held to deepen partnerships with European stakeholders.
The programme included meetings with financial institutions, CSOs, and government representatives, supporting knowledge exchange and investment dialogue.
Among the participants was Elżbieta Jabłońska, head of the Bhutan Poland Friendship Association, who took part in the programme, reflecting continued engagement in Bhutan–Europe cooperation.
As Bhutan advances initiatives such as Gelephu Mindfulness City, international forums like the EU–Bhutan Business Forum play a key role in connecting Bhutan’s development vision with global expertise, partnerships, and investment.
Elżbieta Jabłońska
Bhutan-Poland Friendship Society
