THE Philippines has taken the initial step toward the establishment of diplomatic relations with Bhutan, as confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
“[There is keen interest] to establish diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Bhutan, and has indicated this interest for some time,” the DFA told Philippine News Agency.
In December 2019, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Meynardo LB. Montealegre called on Bhutan Foreign Minister Dr. Tandi Dorji and presented a letter from Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., conveying the country’s desire to establish diplomatic links with Bhutan.
“The establishment of diplomatic relations is a process that entails sustained contacts and discussions between both sides. The recent mission of the [DFA] to Thimphu is an important and significant step in moving forward this priority undertaking,” the foreign affairs agency further stated.
While the two nations had never established consular ties, Manila maintains warm relations with Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu, as the two engaged in significant practical and technical cooperation over the past few years. In the past, the DFA said the Philippines had already welcomed a number of Bhutanese officials on missions for training, or to exchange best practices.
“Formal relations between the Philippines and Bhutan can only promote further amity, goodwill and cooperation between the two countries with great affinity and much to learn from each other, not only as Asian neighbors but also as nations that rank high in happiness indices,” the department noted.
Bhutan, recognized as the “happiest place on Earth,” has been lauded by Manila in the past for its “gross national happiness index,” a measurement of the South Asian country’s progress by giving equal importance to noneconomic aspects of a people’s well-being.
Bhutan became a member of the United Nations in 1971. To date, it maintains diplomatic relations with only 53 countries.
Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
Image credits: DFA-Office of Asia and Pacific Affairs, DFA-ASPAC