Vietnamese president hosts welcome ceremony for King, Queen of Bhutan

According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two leaders held talks following the welcome ceremony.

President Cuong stressed that this is the first visit by a Bhutanese head of state to Vietnam since both countries established diplomatic ties in 2012.

The visit also coincides with the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's August Revolution (August 19) and National Day (September 2), giving the event special significance for bilateral relations.

The president congratulated Bhutan on its development achievements, praising its unique Gross National Happiness model, which balances people, nature, culture, and sustainable growth.

He highlighted Bhutan’s respect for heritage and environmental protection, saying it places people at the center of progress.

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck expressed gratitude for Vietnam’s warm reception, saying Bhutanese people have deep respect for late President Ho Chi Minh and admiration for Vietnam’s past struggles for independence and development.

He voiced confidence in Vietnam’s pursuit of sustainable development goals and expressed interest in learning from the Southeast Asian country’s governance and economic progress.

The king stressed Bhutan’s recognition of Vietnam’s role in the Asia-Pacific region and its desire to strengthen cooperation in key sectors for the benefit of both nations and regional peace and prosperity.

Both leaders agreed to deepen their friendship, enhance high-level exchanges, and sign cooperation agreements to create a framework for future projects.

They emphasized untapped potential in trade, investment, and economic ties, pledging to facilitate market access, diversify supply chains, and boost trade in the coming years.

They also agreed to expand cooperation in agriculture, science-technology, innovation, education, culture, and the arts.

Both sides encouraged airlines to explore direct flights to promote tourism, culture, people-to-people, and religious exchanges, while pledging to share experience in preserving cultural heritage and expanding sustainable development initiatives.

Amid global and regional uncertainties, the two leaders expressed satisfaction that their countries share common positions on sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity protection, and peacekeeping.

They pledged continued coordination and mutual support at international and regional forums, including the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement.

President Cuong welcomed Bhutan’s intention to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and ASEAN, affirming Vietnam’s readiness to support deeper connections.

After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of two agreements, including a governmental cooperation framework and an aviation cooperation deal.