Thai King Strengthens Bhutan Ties, Promises New Era of Cooperation
Bangkok—Thailand is preparing for a historic state visit to Bhutan by Their Majesties King and Queen. This landmark event, the first of its kind during King Rama X’s reign, promises to strengthen ties between the two nations and foster greater cultural and economic exchange. Preparations were the focus of a high-level meeting on Friday between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Bhutanese Ambassador to Thailand, Kinzang Dorji, at Government House in Bangkok.
A photograph released by Government House depicts a cordial exchange between Prime Minister Shinawatra and Ambassador Dorji. The meeting, underscoring the importance of the upcoming royal visit, also included Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and the Prime Minister’s Secretary-General, Prommin Lertsuridej. Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan confirmed the visit’s historical significance, emphasizing its potential to elevate the Thailand-Bhutan relationship.
Beyond ceremony, the meeting facilitated substantial discussions on bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Dorji highlighted Thailand’s crucial role as a trading partner and preferred destination for Bhutanese seeking medical treatment, education, and tourism. Prime Minister Shinawatra affirmed the Thai government’s commitment to ensuring a successful royal visit, pledging full support and inter-agency coordination.
Economic cooperation was a key theme, particularly the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA). Building on a recently concluded fourth round of negotiations—deemed successful by Ms. Watthanachan—the FTA is poised for signing during the upcoming sixth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit, scheduled for Thailand next month. The Bhutanese Prime Minister is also expected to attend, further solidifying the partnership.
Bhutan’s ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project added another dimension to the discussions. Ambassador Dorji presented the GMC, envisioned as a smart city, as a potential economic powerhouse and a bridge connecting South Asia and Southeast Asia. Expressing keen interest, Prime Minister Shinawatra indicated Thailand’s willingness to explore investment opportunities within the GMC, particularly in sectors where Thailand possesses specialized expertise. She also expressed a desire to further explore GMC regulations and policies.
This royal visit represents a significant milestone in Thai-Bhutanese relations. It signifies not just a ceremonial exchange but a deepening of ties across multiple sectors, promising enhanced collaboration and mutual benefit. The progress toward an FTA and shared interest in projects like the GMC underscore a commitment to fostering a vibrant and enduring partnership between the two nations.
