About the Australia Bhutan Friendship Association

Australia-Bhutan Friendship Association

About ABFA

The Australia Bhutan Friendship Association aims to promote more interaction between the people of the two countries, by fostering social, cultural and economic ties between Australians and Bhutanese.

Why do we exist?

Broadly, government relationships between Bhutan and Australia go back a long way. Australia was among the first countries Bhutan's government had dealings with when it began its integration with the world. Over the years, many Bhutanese citizens who have traveled across the world to gain a first-hand experience of living in another culture have chosen to visit Australia, as students.

Despite Australia's geographical distance from Bhutan, many Bhutanese studied in Australian universities and there are many Bhutanese who fondly recall their experience living Down Under.

For Australians, Bhutan holds tremendous appeal. First it seems so remote and isolated; a similar claim that many people in the northern hemisphere say about Australia.

Many Australians and Bhutanese, through work or travel, are making connections with the different cultures of their regions, South East Asia and South Asia, respectively.

It is fair to say that Australians and Bhutanese are intrepid travelers and mix well among multicultural company.

There have been many Australians who have also visited Bhutan as a tourist, and several who have made lasting impressions on Bhutan through their Bhutan's efforts to preserve its pristine environment is something many Australians also appreciate, as is the effort to strike a balance with economic progress.

What do we do?

The Australia Bhutan Friendship Association aims to promote greater exchange of information and networks between Australian and Bhutanese people.

ABFA will promote the work of government and non-government strengthen ties between Bhutan and Australia.

ABFA is a forum for exchanging information, knowledge and experience members about a wide range of interests.