Five decades ago on this day, Bhutan became the 128th member of the United Nations. And since then, the partnership between the UN and Bhutan has grown with collaborations expanding into different range of fields contributing to Bhutan’s development goals.
After Bhutan’s admission to the UN, His Royal Highness Prince Namgyal Wangchuck led the Bhutanese delegation and addressed the 26th session of the United Nations General Assembly. “This is a historic occasion for us and makes the realisation of one of the most cherished dreams. On behalf of His Majesty The King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the government and the people of Bhutan, I would like therefore to take this opportunity of expressing our deepest gratitude to all members of this organisation assembled here today and in particular to the Republic of India.”
The Bhutanese delegation along with UN leaders watched as the Bhutan flag was raised at the UN headquarters in New York in 1971.
Even after 50 years, the UN continues to remain an important development partner of the country. UN has provided a valuable platform for all small states like Bhutan to engage with other members of the international community to contribute to international peace, security and development.
Bhutan’s partnership and engagement with the UN continues to evolve as Bhutan progresses on its development journey. Bhutan relies on the UN’s expertise, wide networks and specialised resources, to access support in areas of knowledge, innovation and technological transformation.
Over the years, Bhutan has been involved in the numerous bodies of the UN. Bhutan has served on many important posts such as Vice President of the UN General Assembly, President of the Trade and Development Board, UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD, Geneva), two terms as member of the UN Commission on Human Rights and as member of the Economic and Social Council and Chairman of the Third Committee during the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the UN. And today, Bhutan is a member of the Bureau of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries.
Sonam Pem
