April 7, 2025
THIMPHU – In a celebration of friendship and mutual respect, Bhutan is gearing up for a historic State Visit from the King and Queen of Thailand. Scheduled for April 25-28, 2025, this anticipated visit by Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana marks a significant chapter in the deep and enduring relations between the two nations, traditionally defined by the strong ties between their Royal Families.
Bhutan’s Ambassador to Thailand, Kinzang Dorji, describes this moment as a ‘watershed moment’, one that will usher in a new era of cooperation and cultural exchange.
As Bhutan prepares to welcome Their Majesties, excitement buzzes across the nation. Ambassador Kinzang Dorji emphasises the significance of this royal visit not only as a reflection of the long-standing friendship between the two Kings but also as a stepping stone to further enhance diplomatic relations and cultural ties. “The entire nation is eagerly awaiting the arrival of Their Majesties,” the Ambassador said, highlighting the respect and joy that permeate Bhutanese society in anticipation of this royal visit.
Leading up to this monumental occasion, a series of celebratory events is planned, allowing both nations to come together in joyous revelry. Bhutan and Thailand will kick off the festivities with a friendly football match between their national teams, creating a spirit of friendly competition. A Thai food festival, Muay Thai demonstrations, film screenings, and cultural performances will follow, all designed to foster understanding and appreciation of each other’s rich traditions. Senior monks from both countries will also unite in prayer at Kuenselphodrang, praying for the continued prosperity and long life of both Monarchs.
The Ambassador said that the foundation of the Bhutan-Thailand relationship remains the unwavering bond between their Royal families, nurtured through visionary leadership over the past three decades. “Despite differences in size and population, the two countries share integral values: a profound respect for monarchy, a shared spiritual heritage, and a legacy of sovereign independence. These elements have woven a narrative of friendship that is both exceptional and enduring,” he said.
Free Trade Agreement
The recent signing of a Free Trade Agreement on April 3 in Bangkok adds another layer of promise to this relationship. This noteworthy achievement, completed with remarkable speed, is set to facilitate duty-free market access for Bhutanese exports to Thailand, significantly enhancing trade and investment opportunities. Ambassador Kinzang Dorji expresses optimism about the FTA’s role in deepening economic ties, reflecting the shared vision of both nations.
Trade between Bhutan and Thailand has grown steadily over the years, amounting to USD 31 million in goods in 2024.
Opportunities in Tourism
Beyond trade, Bhutan and Thailand are exploring flourishing opportunities in education and tourism. Ambassador Kinzang Dorji articulates a vision for collaboration in STEM and artificial intelligence education, as well as an increase in Thai visitors to Bhutan. The Memorandum of Understanding titled “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” has already laid the groundwork for initiatives to attract more Thai tourists, further solidifying the bonds between the two cultures. As Bhutan embarks on grand projects like the Gelephu Mindful City (GMC), Thailand is poised to contribute its expertise and resources. “The excitement is palpable as a business delegation from Thailand, comprising successful investors, prepares to engage with Bhutan’s development goals,” Ambassador Kinzang Dorji said.
A Significant moment for two nations
Following the announcement of Their Majesties’ state visit to Bhutan, both Bhutanese and Thais see this significant occasion not only as a milestone in the friendship between Bhutan and Thailand but also as an opportunity to emphasize the longstanding cultural and spiritual connections rooted in their shared monarchies.
A prominent member of the Asia News Network (ANN) and former president of the Nation Multimedia Group in Bangkok, Pana Janviroj, expressed his thoughts on the importance of this royal visit. “Few countries in the world share as close an affinity as do Thailand and Bhutan. Both nations’ monarchies are a unifying force alongside Buddhism,” he said in a WhatsApp interview.
Pana noted that Bhutan’s happiness index is something to which the Thais aspire, just as Thailand’s ongoing efforts in the sufficiency economy are something the Bhutanese want to emulate. “Only the tangibles of the ocean and mountains provide the physical separation of the two peoples who would otherwise be of the same mind in their views of the world and worldviews,” he said.
He emphasised that the visit of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand to Bhutan for their first official overseas state visit not only honors Their Majesties the King and Queen of Bhutan but also cements a milestone of 21st-century cultural exceptionalism that ignites the enlightenment of tradition and wisdom in an unpredictable world.
Some entrepreneurs in Thimphu also see Their Majesties’ state visit as marking a milestone moment in the friendship between these two nations, already strengthened by shared cultural and spiritual ties rooted in Theravada Buddhism.
Sharing her insights about this upcoming visit and the recent developments in Bhutan-Thailand relations, a prominent businesswoman in Thimphu, Phub Zam, said, “Since establishing diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Thailand in 1989, our partnership has evolved significantly, marked by exchanges in education, culture, and regional cooperation through platforms like BIMSTEC.”
Phub Zam envisions ample opportunities for collaboration during Their Majesties’ visit, particularly in tourism, which could be enhanced by the combined cultural heritage both nations share. Bhutan’s focus on “high-value, low-impact” tourism aligns perfectly with Thailand’s renowned hospitality expertise. “Collaborations in eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and Buddhist cultural circuits could attract discerning travelers from both regions,” she said.
As Bhutan stands ready to welcome Their Majesties, the anticipation reflects a profound commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation. The upcoming State Visit is more than just a diplomatic occasion; it’s a celebration of shared values, cultural depth, and a mutual future that shines brightly with possibilities. Ambassador Kinzang Dorji summed it up: “The journey ahead is promising, and both nations are on a path toward a deeper, more enriched partnership.”
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