In a significant diplomatic stride, Bhutan, led by Foreign Secretary Pema Choden, is set to play a pivotal role at the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) hosted in Kampala, Uganda. The two-day summit, commencing today, promises to be a platform for fostering global cooperation under the theme “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence.”
Accompanied by esteemed officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Secretary Choden is expected to actively contribute to discussions on international affairs and cooperation that resonate with the interests of the 120 developing countries represented by NAM.
The NAM, a robust international movement founded in 1961, has served as a crucial forum for nations to voice their priorities and concerns. For Bhutan, a nation that has been a member since 1973, such affiliations have been integral to its multilateral engagements.
As the Chairmanship of NAM rotates every three to four years, this summit marks the transition of leadership from Azerbaijan to Uganda. Additionally, Uganda is poised to take over the Chairmanship of the Group of 77 and China, a coalition of 134 developing countries founded in 1964. This dual responsibility underscores Uganda’s commitment to advancing the collective economic interests of its member nations, as reflected in the theme of the upcoming Third South Summit – “Leaving no one Behind.”
The South Summit, the highest decision-making body of the Group of 77, will convene in Kampala from January 21 to 22. Here, the participating nations will deliberate on strategies to ensure inclusive development and address the unique challenges faced by developing countries. The theme aligns with the overarching principle of fostering global affluence without leaving any nation or community behind.
For Bhutan, this summit represents not only an opportunity to contribute to shaping global policies but also a chance to strengthen its bonds with other developing nations. Having been a member of the Group of 77 and China since 1971, Bhutan recognizes the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the diverse issues facing developing countries in today’s complex geopolitical landscape.
In a world where the concerns of smaller nations often risk being overshadowed, membership in groups like NAM and the Group of 77 and China becomes a crucial platform for Bhutan to amplify its voice and actively participate in shaping the global narrative. As the delegation from Bhutan engages in dialogue at the NAM summit, the nation continues to underscore its commitment to forging alliances that contribute to a more equitable and prosperous world for all.
