Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
140. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she has examined the possibility of establishing diplomatic relations with Bhutan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23026/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland does not have diplomatic relations with Bhutan at present. Engagement with Bhutan does, however, take place within an EU framework with our Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, joining 18 other EU Ambassadors as well as the Head of the EU Delegation to India in visiting Bhutan last October to mark 40 years of partnership and friendship between the EU and Bhutan. During the visit, Ambassador Kelly met and had discussions with the King of Bhutan while meetings alongside EU counterparts also took place with the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and other senior government figures in Bhutan.
The issue of Ireland's diplomatic network is kept under regular review by my Department in close collaboration with other Government Departments and this will continue as we seek to build on the progress achieved under the Global Ireland 2025 Strategy and in the development of the Global Ireland 2040 strategy.
