Foreign relations of Bhutan

Bhutan has diplomatic relations with 56 of the 193 member states of the United Nations and the European Union. This limited number, and the absence of formal relations with any of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, is part of a deliberate isolationist policy of limiting foreign influence in the state. This stance has been safeguarded by close relations with India, of which Bhutan has previously been considered a protected state.

In 1971, sponsored by India, Bhutan began to develop its foreign relations by joining the United Nations. In 1981, Bhutan joined the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, followed by the World Health Organization and UNESCO in 1982. It is also an active member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Bhutan is currently a member of 45 international organizations.

Under Article 20 of the Constitution of Bhutan enacted in 2008, Bhutan's foreign relations fall under the purview of the monarch, the Druk Gyalpo on the advice of the Executive, which includes the Prime Minister and other Ministers of the Lhengye Zhungtshog including the Minister of Foreign Affairs.