Embassy of IndiaThimphu, Bhutan

Embassy of India
Thimphu

Press Release: Provision of COVID-19 RT-PCR Test Kits to Bhutan

In keeping with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that India would stand by its close friend and neighbour, Bhutan, in fighting the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of India through EOI Thimphu’s First Secretary (Political) & Commercial Representative Ann Haokip handed over today a consignment of COVID-19 RT-PCR test kits (for conducting 20,000 tests) to the Ministry of Health (RGOB) Officiating Director General Tandin Dorji. This is the 8^th consignment of medical supplies handed over by the Government of India to the Royal Government of Bhutan since March 2020.

2. With the outbreak of COVID-19, India acted quickly in responding to and addressing the challenges in the region. As a close friend and neighbour, India has accorded utmost priority to the requirements of Bhutan. Since March 2020, the Government of India has delivered eight consignments of essential medicines (including Paracetamol, Cetrizine, Hydroxychloroquine) and medical equipment (including PPE kits, N95 masks, RT-PCR test kits, x-ray machine) to Bhutan. India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting Phase-III clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine candidates.

3. India’s ‘gesture’ to continue delivery of essential medical supplies is a reflection of the special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades. Going forward, India will continue to extend all possible support to Bhutan to minimize the health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thimphu

2 November 2020