Bhutan King’s visit to Viet Nam expected to elevate bilateral ties

This is the first state visit by the Bhutanese monarch and queen to Viet Nam since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 2012. 

The visit  demonstrates Bhutan's high regard for its friendship and cooperation with Viet Nam, as well as Viet Nam's growing role and influence in the region. It also affirms Viet Nam's respect for Bhutan and its consistent commitment to strengthening ties with South Asian nations.

It aims to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, sustainable and green development, tourism, culture, religion, and multilateral coordination between the two countries.

According to Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck will hold talks with President Luong Cuong; meet with General Secretary To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

Viet Nam has attached great importance to its partnership with Bhutan, recognizing the country as a pioneer in green growth and a nation with high "happiness" indicators. 

For its part, Bhutan regards Viet Nam as a priority partner, eager to learn from Viet Nam's development experience. Leaders of the two countries also frequently exchange congratulations on important national occasions.

In recent years, both sides have stepped up efforts to boost economic and trade ties, with two-way trade reaching around US$20,000 annually. Bhutan has shown interest in importing Vietnamese products such as agricultural goods, consumer products, garments, food, and electronics. It has also encouraged Vietnamese enterprises to invest in the Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Economic Zone and to expand cooperation in tourism, spirituality, culture, and Buddhism./.