In its message, Pakistan conveyed best wishes to the Bhutanese leadership and people, reaffirming hopes for peace and prosperity
Pakistan on Tuesday extended greetings to Bhutan on the occasion of its National Day, a routine diplomatic message that drew attention for an unexpected visual detail.
The congratulatory message, shared by Pakistan’s Foreign Office on social media, was accompanied by a photograph of a dzong — a traditional Bhutanese fortress — that was recently renovated with financial assistance from India. The image quickly caught the eye of observers tracking regional diplomacy in South Asia.
In its message, Pakistan conveyed best wishes to the Bhutanese leadership and people, reaffirming hopes for peace and prosperity. National Day celebrations in Bhutan mark the coronation of the country’s monarch and are among the most important events in the Himalayan kingdom’s calendar.
On the occasion of National Day of the Kingdom of #Bhutan, we extend our heartiest felicitations to its people and Government. @PakinBangladesh @FMBhutan
🇵🇰🤝🇧🇹 pic.twitter.com/GTsITx6UZr
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) December 17, 2025
What stood out, however, was the choice of imagery. The dzong featured in the post is part of a broader heritage conservation effort supported by Indian funding, reflecting New Delhi’s long-standing development partnership with Bhutan. India has played a central role in restoring several historic dzongs and cultural sites across the country, often positioning these projects as symbols of close bilateral ties.
The use of the image did not go unnoticed, particularly given the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Pakistan, and the historically tense relationship between India and Pakistan. Analysts noted that while congratulatory messages on national days are standard diplomatic practice, visuals are usually chosen carefully — especially in a region where symbolism often carries political weight.
There was no immediate reaction from Bhutan, which traditionally maintains a low-key and cautious approach to external diplomacy. India, too, did not officially comment on Pakistan’s post, though officials have repeatedly highlighted Bhutan as one of New Delhi’s closest and most trusted regional partners.
Bhutan shares a uniquely close relationship with India, spanning defence, economic cooperation and infrastructure development. Indian support for Bhutan’s cultural preservation, including dzong renovations, is often showcased as part of that partnership.
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