The Department of SAARC and Regional Organisations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs conducted a one day Coordination Workshop for SAARC Focal Points from various ministries and agencies on 24 December 2012 in Hotel Druk, Phuntsholing. The workshop was opened by Foreign Secretary Dasho Yeshey Dorji.

The Kingdom of Bhutan and the Republic of Colombia, wishing to strengthen and develop mutually beneficial relations between their countries and peoples, have established diplomatic relations with effect from 21 December 2012.

The Permanent Mission of Bhutan in Geneva, Switzerland, hosted a National Day Reception on 12th December 2012, at the Grand Kempinski Hotel, Geneva.

The Government of Australia has announced the introduction of a new visa regulation (label free travel arrangements) for Bhutanese citizens traveling to Australia with effect from 1st October, 2012. For detailed information visit www.immi.gov.au/vevo.