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Bhutan and China hold the 25th round of discussions which has been held up since the previous round in 2016, showing signs of progress in relations; Beijing pushes for diplomatic ties with Thimphu
Bhutan – China Relation
The two countries do not have formal diplomatic relations.
They have maintained unofficial contact through periodic visits by officials and border talks.
China claims large swaths of Bhutanese territory, but the two sides have agreed to a "three-step roadmap" to resolve the dispute.
Bhutan is trying to balance its desire for good relations with China with its need to protect its sovereignty and independence.
Key developments in Bhutan-China relations in recent years
In 2012, China and Bhutan signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Border Management Cooperation.
In 2013, China and Bhutan established a Joint Technical Team on the Delimitation of the China-Bhutan Boundary.
In 2019, China and Bhutan held their first Expert Group Meeting on Boundary Issues in over two years.
In 2022, China and Bhutan agreed to a "three-step roadmap" to resolve their border dispute. The three steps are:
The two sides will complete the exchange of draft maps.
The two sides will conduct a joint field verification of the disputed areas.
The two sides will hold negotiations to reach a final agreement on the boundary.
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