It is very difficult for Bhutan to compete with India and China, its major neighbours, as it is far cheaper to import most goods and many foodstuffs. The development of small, local businesses is a major priority for the government. Following the recent Round Table Meeting of all agencies, donors and donor countries, and the Royal Government of Bhutan, VSO s priorities were soundly endorsed and the VSO programme will be recruiting more volunteers in the near future. The volunteer's perspective Monday morning in my office in Thimphu. Clouds hover over the peaks around the valley.
Someone switches on a heater.
It s too much for the electricity and trips my power protector. I shut down my computer at once and stare moodily out of the window. Two male officials are walking past. Both wear national dress the gho , a warm wrap like a full-length kilt, and cumney , a ceremonial scarf worn across the shoulders. One man's cumney is white, the other s is red, indicating that he is a Dasho, something like a knight.