Statement by delegation of the Netherlands
Bhutan Round Table Meeting 11-12 December 2013
Mr. Chairman, Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I would like to start by congratulating the people of Bhutan on the peaceful and successful election of a new Parliament and the formation of a new government, led by H.E. Prime Minister Tobgay. Bhutan’s second parliamentary elections in July 2013 have helped to further strengthenParliamentary Democracy in Bhutan.
I am pleased to announce that his year, the SNV Netherlands development organization celebrates its silver jubilee of 25 years of collaboration in Bhutan. The Netherlands is proud to have a long-standing and constructive relationship with Bhutan and is looking forward to continuing the excellent relationship with Bhutan in the future.
Mr. Chairman,
I would like to associate with all points raised in the statement of the European Delegation.
Bhutan has started implementing its 11th five year plan, 2013-2018, focused on self-reliance and inclusive green socio-economic development. In its plan, Bhutan is working towards self-reliance by 2020. The Netherlands is pleased to see that activities are picked up with many efforts and willingness to make things happen.
Mr. Chairman,
As most at this table are aware, The Netherlands has supported Bhutan in achieving the goals of the 10th plan, through direct budget support of 10 mln Euro, aimed at giving the Bhutanese government a maximum degree of ownership and responsibility. Due to a parliamentary motion against the instrument of budget support in all countries, the budget support to Bhutan has ended, but The Netherlandsremains committed to continuing its partnership with Bhutan through a range of other instruments. Not only though its important contributions at the multilateral level (through the EU and the UN – in particular to UNDP), but also at the bilateral level.
Firstly,
The Netherlands views infrastructural development as a vital prerequisite for further economic development. We currently support Bhutan through our facility for infrastructure development ORIO. In a joint effort with the Royal Government of Bhutan, we support the building of a 80km stretch of road to connect some of the most remote areas in central south Bhutan, thereby allowing the people living there also to receive the benefits of increased connectivity.
The Netherlands continues to offer Bhutan eligibility for new ORIO programs, with a project size between 2 and 60 mln euros. Bhutan has been invited to submit proposals for a second ORIO project, which, if granted, could provide an important stimulus for the infrastructure development in Bhutan.
Secondly,
Apart from the ORIO program, The Netherlands supports Bhutan with developing its human resource capacity through The Netherlands Fellowship program.Since 2002, more than 700 Bhutanese citizens and government officials have participated in this program. The Netherlands continues to offer the NFP and Tailor Made Training programs for Bhutan.
Thirdly,
Bhutan is eligible for a number of other instruments aimed at the economic development of Bhutan: (1) the facility for sustainable entrepreneurship and food security (FDOV), (2) loans from the Netherlands Development Bank (FMO), (3) projects of the Netherlands Centre for The Promotion of Import from Developing Countries (CBI), and (4) technical assistance from Netherlands Senior Experts to entrepreneurs for small and medium enterprises (PUM). A mission of senior experts will be visiting Bhutan early 2014.
Fourthly,
As I mentioned earlier, SNV Netherlands development organization has been active in Bhutan for 25 years. Their current focus is on (1) agriculture – by strengthening the position of smallholder farmers, supporting them to access markets with better crops and products, (2) water, sanitation and hygiene – focusing on access to improved sanitation facilities in rural areas, and service delivery in urban areas, and (3) renewable energy – focusing on the increased access to sustainable energy, most notably domestic biogas. SNV Bhutan supports the development agenda of the Royal Government of Bhutan as enshrined in its vision 2020 document and the respective 5 year plans with core funding amounting currently to more than 1.3 mln euro, as well as with additional voluntary funding and its 24 committed staff members.
I am very pleased by the discussions on the achievements made in the 10th plan and highly impressed by the drive and innovative ideasexpressed by the Royal Government of Bhutan in its 11th plan.
In conclusion,I would like to express my gratitude to the Royal Government of Bhutan for the organization of this Round Table Meeting and their impeccable hospitality. Given the high levels of commitment, dedication and passion, we are optimistic that the Royal Government of Bhutan will achieve its ambitious goals set for the 11th five year plan and more. On our part, The Netherlands as a long-standing development partner will continue to remain an interested, involved, cooperative and supportive partner for the development ambitions of Bhutan.
Thank you.