At the Presidential Palace this morning, President Luong Cuong and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck participated in a flag-raising ceremony, reviewed the Vietnam People's Army honor guard, and witnessed a celebratory parade.

Following the welcome ceremony, the two leaders held talks and witnessed the signing and exchange of cooperation documents.

President Luong Cuong and the Bhutanese King review the honor guard at the Presidential Palace on 19/8. Photo: Giang Huy

President Luong Cuong and the Bhutanese King review the honor guard at the Presidential Palace on 19/8. Photo: Giang Huy

The Bhutanese King is scheduled to meet with General Secretary To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

This is the first state visit to Vietnam by the Bhutanese King and Queen since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 2012.

Vietnam and Bhutan enjoy a good relationship. High-ranking leaders of the two countries often exchange messages on special occasions. Bilateral trade is approximately 20,000 USD annually. The two countries have potential for tourism, especially Buddhist and spiritual tourism.

President Luong Cuong and his wife with the King and Queen of Bhutan. Photo: Giang Huy

President Luong Cuong and his wife with the King and Queen of Bhutan. Photo: Giang Huy

Regarding cultural and tourism exchange, an increasing number of Vietnamese tourists are interested in Bhutan, a destination known as the "happiness kingdom" with its pristine natural environment and meditation experiences.

The two countries are also working towards cooperation in religious affairs, especially Buddhism, as well as in education and human resource exchange. The Vietnamese community in Bhutan is small, around 10 people, including three women married to Bhutanese men.

Ngoc Anh