Strengthening Ties Across Key Sectors

Thimphu, May 23, 2025 – Sri Lanka and Bhutan will hold their second round of bilateral political consultations on May 27 in Thimphu, marking a significant step in deepening cooperation between the two South Asian nations. The talks, to be held at Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, aim to build on progress made since their first meeting in Colombo in November 2015.

Key Agenda: Expanding Multisector Collaboration
The discussions will be co-chaired by:
– Ranaraja, Secretary of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
– Pema Choden, Foreign Secretary of Bhutan

Key focus areas include:
– Trade & Investment: Enhancing economic partnerships and exploring new opportunities.
– Tourism: Promoting cross-border travel and cultural exchanges.
– Climate Change: Aligning strategies for environmental sustainability.
– Education & Health: Strengthening collaboration in human development.
– Connectivity & People-to-People Ties: Fostering closer societal bonds.

A Renewed Commitment to Regional Partnership

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry stated that the talks would review progress over the past decade and outline a roadmap for future collaboration. Bhutan, known for its Gross National Happiness development model, and Sri Lanka, a hub for trade and tourism, share mutual interests in sustainable development and regional stability.

Why This Matters
– Strategic Timing: The meeting follows Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts and Bhutan’s push for cautious globalization.
– Regional Diplomacy: Reinforces South Asian solidarity amid global geopolitical shifts.
– Climate Leadership: Both nations are vulnerable to climate change, making joint action critical.