This is the highest-level visit ever paid by a Bhutanese leader to Vietnam, marking an important new stage in bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2012.

Located between China and India, Bhutan has a history of more than 4,000 years and is well known for measuring development through Gross National Happiness rather than conventional GDP. The country prioritises quality of life, cultural preservation, and sustainable development, while providing universal free public education and health care. With over 50% of its population under 30, Bhutan is a young and dynamic nation committed to human development and social well-being.

In recent years, Vietnam–Bhutan relations have grown positively through high-level exchanges and communications. Bilateral trade remains modest at around US$20,000 annually, but there is significant potential for cooperation, particularly in Buddhist and spiritual tourism. Vietjet has operated charter flights to Bhutan, and in 2025, Bhutan Airlines plans to operate a direct route between Ho Chi Minh City and Bhutan with 10 scheduled round-trip flights annually.

The two countries are also seeking closer cooperation in religion, especially Buddhism, as well as education, human resources exchange, and cultural exchange, while strengthening coordination at regional and international forums.

Vietnam and Bhutan share common views on sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and South–South cooperation. Bhutan has expressed support for Vietnam’s candidacy to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term, while Vietnam supports Bhutan’s candidacy to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) for the 2025–2029 term.

This State visit by the King and Queen of Bhutan holds great significance, adding fresh impetus to elevating Vietnam–Bhutan relations to a new height, especially in trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

King and Queen of Bhutan to make state visit to Vietnam next week

VOV.VN - His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan will make a state visit to Vietnam from August 18 to 22 at the invitation of President Luong Cuong and his spouse.