Foreign relations of Bhutan

Bhutan maintains diplomatic relations with 56 of the 193 member states of the United Nations and the European Union. This limited number of relationships, coupled with the lack of formal ties to any of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, reflects a conscious isolationist policy aimed at minimizing foreign influence within the country. Bhutan's approach has been underpinned by its close relationship with India, which has historically regarded Bhutan as a protected state.