The Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho, is attending the 3rd World Food India event in New Delhi from 19th to 22nd September 2024. This prestigious event, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, brings together global leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from the agro-industrial and food processing sectors.
Lyonpo Younten Phuntsho’s visit follows an invitation extended by His Excellency Shri Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing Industries, India. During the event, the Hon’ble Ministers engaged in high-level discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Bhutan and India. The Hon’ble Minister expressed deep gratitude to the Government of India for its unwavering support in Bhutan’s development, emphasizing the pivotal role this partnership has played in Bhutan’s growth. He also stated that the enduring and time-tested exemplary relationship between the two nations continues to flourish under the visionary leadership of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. Bhutan and India share a bond that is not only strategic but deeply rooted in mutual trust and cooperation.
The bilateral meeting also emphasized collaboration in the development of agro-industries and the agriculture and livestock sectors. Discussions highlighted opportunities for deeper cooperation in food processing, value addition, and sustainable agricultural development, which are essential for enhancing food security and boosting economic growth in both nations. The exchange of best practices, technologies, and innovations in agro-processing was also explored as a means to improve productivity, empower farmers and agro-entrepreneurs, and uplift rural communities.
Bhutan’s participation in this global event underscores its strong commitment to advancing agro-industries and fostering strategic partnerships in agriculture.
At the sidelines of the event, the Hon’ble Minister also met with the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bhutan, His Excellency Mr. Hervé Delphin and expressed Bhutan’s gratitude to the EU for its support, particularly to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. They also discussed areas of future collaborations and continued partnership.
Additionally, the Hon’ble Minister met with Shri Gokulananda Mallik, Minister of Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, and MSME Department, Government of Odisha, to discuss cooperation in fisheries and animal husbandry, sharing best practices and promoting MSMEs in agriculture and livestock to support rural economic growth.
The Hon’ble Minister will also attend as the Chief Guest at the SAPLING (South Asian Policy Leadership for Improved Nutrition and Growth) dialogue, organized by the World Bank. This event is a part of the ongoing 3rd World Food India in New Delhi.