An earthquake measuring 6.9 magnitude on the Richter scale struck Bhutan on September 21, with an epicenter located 180 km east of the capital Thimpu. About 10 people lost their lives, including 3 Indian citizens, and many monasteries and homes were damaged. Most of the deaths were reported from the eastern districts of Mongar and Trashigang. Reports noted that the tremors were felt as far as Bangladesh and Tibet1. The Bhutanese government described the quake as “one of the greatest disasters in recent times2.”

Brazil meanwhile became the first South American country to establish diplomatic relations with Bhutan. Both the countries pledged to increase bilateral cooperation on socio-economic issues3.

• 1. “Bhutan hit by strong earthquake,” BBC News Service, September 21, 2009, at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8267067.stm
• 2. “Bhutan PM laments the quake,” BBC News Service, September 23, 2009, at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8270418.stm
• 3. “Brazil-Bhutan Diplomatic Ties,” The Kuensel, September 24, 2009, at http://www.kuenselonline.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=13511