Bhutanese prince in Dhaka for medical checkup

Bhutanese Prince Namgyel Wangchuk arrived in the city yesterday for a medical checkup.

"I have come for annual medical check up. I had been in Bangladesh several times in the past, twice, for medical check up, both private," the Prince told The Daily Star yesterday at a diagnostic centre at Dhanmondi.

In reply to a question, he said, "Unfortunately, we don't have good medical treatment facilities as well as diagnostic centres in Bhutan. I found excellent healthcare facilities in a friendly neighbouring country like Bangladesh where there is plenty of quality diagnostic centres and of course, doctors."

Namgyel who has come by road said, "I am very satisfied with the services here and plan to come every year for medical checkup."

The Prince, uncle of Bhutanese King Jigme Singhe Wangchuk had an open-heart surgery 10 years ago and requires regular check ups. Earlier, he went to Switzerland and Singapore for treatment.

Doctors here said he is in good health.

The Prince visited Cox's Bazar for recreation. He leaves Dhaka tomorrow.

Bhutanese ambassador Lhatu Wangchuk accompanied him.