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After months of secret talks, Israel, Bhutan establish diplomatic ties

Some observers expect that still other countries, including Oman, may follow suit before US President Donald Trump leaves office.
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Israel and the kingdom of Bhutan established diplomatic relations on Dec. 12. The ceremony took place at the New Delhi residence of Israeli Ambassador to India Ron Malka, who with Bhutan’s Ambassador to India Maj. Gen. Vetsop Namgyel signed the agreement on behalf of their respective countries.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi tweeted after the ceremony, “Last weekend, I spoke with my colleague, the [Foreign Minister of Bhutan], Tandi Dorji. We agreed to establish full diplomatic relations between us beginning this evening [Dec. 12, 2020]. We also spoke about formulating a joint work plan in the areas off water management, agriculture, health and more."

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