Bhutan and Switzerland are commemorating 40 years of diplomatic relations this year, celebrating a milestone that underscores decades of enduring friendship, meaningful cooperation, and shared values. The occasion is marked by a two-day official visit to Bhutan by Swiss Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Ignazio Cassis.
Hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, the high-level visit is seen as a reaffirmation of the strong diplomatic and personal ties between the two countries. According to officials, such exchanges serve not only to enhance bilateral relations but also to deepen the people-to-people connections that have flourished over the years.
While official diplomatic ties were formally established on 16 September 1985, the friendship between Bhutan and Switzerland has much deeper roots. It dates back to the early 1950s, when His Majesty the Third Druk Gyalpo shared a close personal bond with the late Fritz von Schulthess-Rechberg, owner of the Swiss enterprise Desco. This early relationship laid the foundation for decades of collaboration and mutual respect.
To mark the 40th anniversary, a special reception and photo exhibition were held in Thimphu, highlighting key moments and milestones in the Bhutan-Switzerland partnership. Speaking at the event, Bhutan’s Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister acknowledged Switzerland as one of Bhutan’s earliest and most trusted development partners.
Over the years, Swiss support has played a pivotal role in Bhutan’s development journey. Notable contributions include the establishment of national institutions like the Judiciary and the Anti-Corruption Commission, the construction of Paro and Samtse Colleges of Education, implementation of Renewable Natural Resources (RNR) projects, and the building of essential infrastructure such as suspension bridges in remote areas.
Adding another layer to this celebration, Helvetas Bhutan—a Swiss organisation focused on development cooperation and humanitarian response—is also marking its 50th year in Bhutan. Since 1975, Helvetas has implemented Swiss-funded projects that have significantly contributed to Bhutan’s socio-economic progress.
The Royal Government of Bhutan has expressed deep appreciation for the continued humanitarian collaboration, particularly the strong working relationship between the Bhutan Red Cross Society and the Swiss Red Cross Society—further highlighting the compassion and solidarity that define this bilateral partnership.
Looking ahead, the celebrations will continue with a visit by a delegation of Swiss Parliamentarians, led by National Councillors, scheduled for October. This visit is expected to further strengthen parliamentary diplomacy and reaffirm the mutual commitment to friendship and cooperation.
As Bhutan and Switzerland celebrate four decades of formal relations, their story stands as a testament to the power of long-standing friendship, shared principles, and sustained partnership in promoting peace, development, and mutual understanding.
