Deepening Partnership Opportunities: Ambassador Philip Green’s Visit to Bhutan       

Ambassador Philip Green visited Bhutan from 3-6 May, reinforcing the strength of the Australia–Bhutan relationship and advancing cooperation across infrastructure, education and cultural preservation. The visit included an audience with His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and a substantive meeting with His Excellency Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, reaffirming the shared commitment to a strong and forward-looking partnership.

On World Press Freedom Day, the Ambassador attended Bhutan’s National Journalism Awards, recognising the vital role of a free and independent media and Australia’s support to the Journalists’ Association of Bhutan.

During the visit, Ambassador Green also announced a new development partnership with the Bhutan Film Institute and Samuh to strengthen Bhutan’s film sector, including through grassroots skills development for students across seven central and private schools in Bhutan.

Education and inclusion were central to the visit. The Ambassador inaugurated a multimedia laboratory at Changangkha Middle Secondary School, supported by the Australian Government and the Bhutan Foundation’s Special Education Program, contributing to more innovative and inclusive learning environments.

The visit also highlighted Australia’s support for regional infrastructure connectivity. Australian grant funding under the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity program contributed to the World Bank’s USD 515 million financing package for Bhutan’s Dorjilung Hydropower Project – an important step towards enhanced regional energy security and sustainable development.

In addition, Ambassador Green launched a new partnership with the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development in the presence of His Excellency Lyonpo Tshering, Minister for Home Affairs, to support Bhutan’s museums and cultural heritage sector. The initiative will strengthen preservation efforts and deepen institutional collaboration. The visit underscored the depth of the Australia–Bhutan relationship and a shared commitment to building opportunity, resilience and prosperity for the future.

(High Commissioner Philip Green at a Bhutan School for a Direct Aid Program launch event)

Lest We Forget: Dawn Service in New Delhi Honours the Anzac Legacy       

Australians and New Zealanders gathered at dawn at the Delhi War Cemetery on 25 April to commemorate Anzac Day, honouring the service and sacrifice of all who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions. Hosted by the Australian High Commissioner, Philip Green, and New Zealand High Commissioner, Patrick Rata, the ceremony brought together members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the Indian Armed Forces, and the Australian and New Zealand communities in India. New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, the Hon Todd McClay, attended as a special guest. Guests observed a minute’s silence and laid wreaths in remembrance, reflecting on the enduring significance of Anzac Day. Commemorating the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces in 1915, Anzac Day has become a solemn day of national reflection and gratitude towards those who made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of peace and stability.

Following the service, the Australian High Commission hosted the traditional Gunfire Breakfast. The event featured the presentation of the Defence Long Service Medal to Lt Col Fiona Bruce and the National Emergency Medal (with Clasp) to Captain RG Upton for his service during the 2019-20 Bushfires. In the lead-up to Anzac Day, the High Commission also hosted members of the diplomatic and military community for a special screening of the Australian cinematic classic “Gallipoli.” Directed by Peter Weir, the film to this day remains a powerful tribute to courage, sacrifice, mateship and the profound human cost of war.

(High Commissioner Philip Green paying his tributes at Delhi's War Cemetary on Anzac Day)