Canada congratulates Bhutan on completion of second parliamentary elections

Canada's High Commissioner to India and Ambassador to Bhutan Stewart Beck on Tuesday congratulated the Government of Bhutan for successfully holding the country's second parliamentary elections earlier this week.

In a statement, Ambassador Beck said: "On behalf of all Canadians, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Bhutan on the country's second National Assembly elections, which were held on July 13, 2013.

"The election results have brought a change in leadership that reflects a maturing democracy with a strong opposition that can guide proceedings with its expertise and continue making significant contributions to Bhutan's democratic institutions.

"Canada enjoys a friendly relationship with Bhutan and looks forward to further strengthening ties through our engagement with the newly elected government."

Bhutan's opposition People"s Democratic Party (PDP) defeated the ruling Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) party to win the election in the country.

The PDP won 32 of the country's 47 parliamentary seats, results posted on the official website of Bhutan"s Election Commission said.

The DPT, which won the last election in 2008, only secured 15 seats in the poll.

PDP leader Tshering Tobgay is likely to be named the prime minister of the new government.

Officials said that the turnout was high at about 80 percent. The country's struggling economy and ties with neighbouring India were key issues in the campaign.

Bhutan has been a democracy since 2008, when the king voluntarily relinquished his absolute power.