His Majestys Speeches

Inspirations from the Throne: The source of light and hope.

2014 collection
Contents
2013 January 25: His Majesty the King of Bhutan graced the 64th Indian Republic Day Celebrations in
Delhi as the Chief Guest. ............................................................................................................... 3
2012 December 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 2012 National Day Celebrations ................... 5
2011 December 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 2011 National Day Celebrations ................... 8
2011 November 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the National Diet of Japan ...............................10
2011 November 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at Keio University, Japan ....................................13
2011 August 23: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Graduates Orientation Program ......................17
2011 July 15: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Convocation Ceremony of the Royal University of
Bhutan .......................................................................................................................................19
2011 July 12: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Dhar Ceremony for Gups elects ...........................21
2011 May 20: Royal Address to the 7th Session of Parliament ..........................................................23
2010 December 17: Royal Address delivered during the National Day of Bhutan ................................25
2010 October 23: Royal Address at Doon School, Dehradun, India ....................................................29
2010 October 21: Royal Address at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Defence College, New
Delhi .......................................................................................................................................33
2010 October 05: Royal Address by King Jigme Khesar at the Calcutta University Convocation, Calcutta
University, Kolkata, October 5, 2010. ............................................................................................36
2010 November 19: Royal address delivered at the 6th session of the first Parliament ..........................43
2009 December 23: His Majesty the Kings Madhavrao Scindia Memorial Lecture .............................46
2009 July 30: Royal Address at the Concluding Ceremony of the 3rd Session of Parliament .................52
2009 February 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 3rd Convocation of the Royal University of
Bhutan .......................................................................................................................................54
2008 November 07: Coronation Address to the Nation .....................................................................57
References ..................................................................................................................................59


2013 January 25: His Majesty the King of Bhutan graced the 64th Indian Republic Day
Celebrations in Delhi as the Chief Guest.
The President of India hosted a State Banquet in His Majestys honour on the eve of the
Republic Day.
The following is the Banquet Speech by His Majesty.
Your Excellency, President of India,
Your Excellency, Prime Minister,
Respected Dignitaries,
It is with immense joy that I stand here today among great friends in a nation that we all love
and with pride and honor, that I represent Bhutan at the Republic Day of India. On this most
auspicious occasion, I bring with me the good wishes and prayers of my father, the Government
and People of Bhutan.
Your Excellencies, Bhutan has been on an extraordinary journey. For one hundred years of
monarchy we nurtured the dream of democracy. And today, after such sacrifice and dedication
upon the culmination of so many achievements, I am proud to be King of a young, democratic
Bhutan that is on the cusp of even greater success and accomplishment. Your Excellencies, this
journey of modern Bhutan was not travelled alone. From the moment of immense joy that was
Indias Independence Day of 1947, it has been a journey travelled by India and Bhutan, together.
Bhutans success is founded upon the sound socio-economic development over the last six
decades, for which Indias steadfast support has been invaluable. The confidence and stature we
enjoy as a unique nation today were born from the hard work of generations of Bhutanese,
complemented by the extraordinary friendship we have with India. India will always hold a
special place in our hearts.
My grandfather said, The destiny of Bhutan is intimately bound with that of India and it is in
our mutual interests to further the bonds of friendship and understanding. And, many decades
later, in a modernizing Bhutan, my father declared, India is the cornerstone of our foreign
policy. To these profound assertions of intimate bonds I would like to state, Indo-Bhutan
Friendship is indispensible for the future success of Bhutan.
Today, as we look ahead, we see a long journey not without its challenges but nevertheless, a
journey whose road will be paved with geopolitical and historical foundations; borne on the spirit
of trust, interdependence and constancy, but above all, a journey defined by India and Bhutan,
together.
India is truly a great nation. As a historian and philosopher once said, India was the motherland
of our race, and Sanskrit the mother of Europes languages: she was the mother of our
philosophy; mother, of much of our mathematics; mother, through the village community,
of self-government and democracy. Mother India is in many ways the mother of us all.
Your Excellencies India is the reservoir of the worlds greatest religions; the cradle of great
thinkers and leaders; the home of almost 20% of humanity; the guardian of more than half a
billion citizens under 20 and the fertile ground for great young talent and discovery all
flourishing under the worlds largest democracy. Your Excellencies, Bhutan is proud to be your
neighbour and closest friend.
I thank you, Your Excellency, for the great honor to my People and Nation, of being invited to
the 64th Republic Day. In this moment of great happiness I offer to you my deepest, most
profound affection and goodwill. My bond with India is for life for it arises from two loves
my love for India and, my love for Bhutan and my People.
It is, therefore, with immense joy that Jetsun and I, raise a toast on this momentous occasion to
the good health and happiness of Your Excellency the President of India; to the steadfast loyalty,
trust and faith that define Indo-Bhutan Friendship and to the great nation of India!
Tashi Delek! And Jai Hind!
2012 December 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 2012 National Day Celebrations
His Majesty the King celebrated the 2012 National Day with the people of Thimphu. Her Majesty
the Gyaltsuen also graced the celebrations.
His Majesty the Kings National Day Address to the nation:
On the occasion of the 105th National Day, it gives me much happiness to address our People of
the 20 dzongkhags.
This National Day is of special significance. The powers offered by our People to the King in
1907 were, after hundred years of Nation building, returned in 2008 to our People by the Druk
Gyalpo. It was in that year that we held the first elections under democracy and adopted the
Constitution. Today we are nearing the end of the term of the first Parliament we elected in 2008
and the culmination of the tenth and largest 5-year plan. So much work lies ahead and such
immense responsibilities rest on our shoulders as we approach 2013.
Yet, with capable and dedicated citizens who have great love for our country; with the guidance
of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and; with the ever-stronger bonds between People and King, I have
great confidence that we shall achieve our goals.
Our People of Bhutan are unique. We have a sense of family, community and brotherhood that
inspires us to come together in times of need. I have seen this following natural disasters and
most recently in the way in which all Bhutanese came forward to offer whatever little we could
afford to rebuild the historic treasure, Wangduephodrang Dzong.
In other nations, difficult moments in their history are met with strife, violence and conflict as
people sacrifice national interest in order to achieve individual ambitions. In Bhutan such acts
and events have never occurred. Our way of life, our heritage, loyalty and values remain strong
in the hearts of our People and our People stand ready, even in times of great personal hardship,
to place Nation above Self. I am so proud of our People and offer my deep gratitude for the love
you have shown for your Nation.
It is during times of prosperity and success that we must remind ourselves of the work that lies
ahead. We have made a good start in our transition to democracy but much remains to be done.
Our Nation has seen great socio-economic growth but it is more important that we have growth
with equity. We must raise, with all our effort, the less fortunate so that they may, at the earliest,
begin to partake in the opportunities brought by modernization and progress.
The government has provided education to our youth. But for the nation to prosper for all time, a
sound education must be succeeded by access to the right jobs and responsibilities, so that our
youth may bloom as individuals and at the same time serve their Nation well.
The recent Rupee shortage is a serious problem. I feel it is a reminder that, as a Nation, we must
exercise our traditional sense of caution and work even harder as we address the challenges of
the time. For no matter what challenges lie ahead, it is only the Bhutanese citizen who can
protect and safeguard Bhutan.
Today, the most important duty for us is the upcoming 2013 Parliament elections. I would like to
say that we all of us are new to this democratic transition. We have all equally acquired four
and a half years of experience in democracy. Experience comes with participation, so I urge you
all to come forward as candidates, members of parties and voters for 2013.
Remember, achieving democracy is not the goal. The real fruits of our efforts should be that
democracy brings greater unity, harmony and prosperity to our Nation. Democracy must be able
to fulfill the aspirations of our People.
Many hundreds of years ago, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal unified the nation, established the
dual system and laid the foundations on which a unique Bhutan was born. This new nation was
then further strengthened over the course of history by fifty-four Desis and generations of
Bhutanese. The last hundred years, the Wangchuck dynasty, further strengthened the foundations
laid by the Zhabdrung and handed over a special Nation to our People in 2008. All of this was
possible because our People have lived as one small family, true to the ideals of the Zhabdrung
and the foundations of a unique and special Bhutanese identity.
As we approach the elections of 2013, we must, therefore, keep in mind these foundations of our
Nation and prevent all ethnic, religious or political divisions in our small Nation. We must
participate in democracy with the spirit of harmony and fraternity.
In 2008, our democratic transition and the wholehearted participation by the people including the
80% voter turnout were lauded by the world. I urge you all to exercise your right to vote it
comes but once in 5 years for it is an act of great benefit to the Nation.
With the Blessings of the Triple Gem and our Guardian Deities and the good fortune of our
People, I am confident we will conduct the second elections under democracy successfully in
2013.
For me, I hold sacred the endeavors begun by my father, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. I have
committed myself to bringing to fruition all the noble endeavors begun in his 34 years of service
and sacrifice. I also hold sacred my duty to ensure the success of democracy and I shall work to
lay the strongest foundations for a vibrant democracy within my reign.
Above all, I believe that the Golden Throne is not a Throne of wealth, power and prestige. The
Golden Throne of Bhutan is a unique Throne of Destiny to serve our People and Nation.
As King since 2006 I have always served with complete dedication and integrity. Sometimes I
may have erred. Yet, you my people, have given me even more love and support and placed your
complete faith and trust in me. To our People of the 20 Dzongkhags, I offer my heartfelt
gratitude and pledge that I shall give everything to be of service to you and Bhutan.
In this land blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and our Fourth
Druk Gyalpo, I pray that there shall be everlasting peace, prosperity and happiness.


2011 December 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 2011 National Day Celebrations

His Majesty the King celebrated the 2011 National Day with the people of Thimphu. Her
Majesty the Gyaltsuen also attended the celebrations.
His Majesty the Kings National Day Address to the nation:
My fellow Bhutanese, it gives me great joy to speak to you on this auspicious occasion marking
the day Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck ascended the Throne, in 1907. Our nation has been blessed
with the benevolent reigns of four monarchs since.
It is exactly five years since I became King. In these five years, we have made a successful
transition to democracy. The elected government, bureaucracy and government agencies have
implemented important development activities effectively and we have continued to achieve
impressive socio-economic growth. Bhutans relations with other nations have grown more
diverse and strong. I am extremely proud of these achievements and the people and I, are deeply
grateful to the government, dratshang, civil service and private sector.
In October, I married Jetsun Pema. I am grateful for the warmth and affection with which, all our
Bhutanese people came together to celebrate with me. I deeply appreciate the efforts and
preparations made by the government, bureaucracy and volunteers; the prayers of the Zhung
Dratshang and religious community; the good wishes and blessings of our senior citizens; the joy
and happiness with which the youth embraced the occasion and the wholehearted love and
support of the people of the 20 dzongkhags. The strength of your love and kindness towards me
leaves me deeply humbled. As a young King, I have not yet been able to serve you as my father
has done but my greatest desire is that I must repay your love, loyalty, support and trust. I pledge
that it shall be my life-long endeavor to do so.
My dear citizens, while I am deeply satisfied with the progress of our nation, it is my duty as
King to contemplate, every single day, on the challenges that lie ahead for our nation. My
deepest concerns today are:
Democracy we have made a unique transition to democracy. What makes this transition even
more extraordinary is the short span of time within which we have done so. Yet, the true test
shall be whether we have the will and commitment to sustain a well functioning and strong
vibrant democracy for all time to come. Further, we have a strong, committed parliament today,
but my worry is, in the future, whether our best and brightest people will forsake their careers in
order to serve the nation through politics. After all, for democracy to succeed, we will always
need strong, capable and upright people in parliament.
Education the government over the decades has built schools in remote areas and trained
teachers to man these schools. It has made immense efforts to build a strong education system.
However, is the education our youth are receiving attuned to needs of the nation? And once
educated, will our children find employment and realize their full potential?
Corruption will we allow it, as in so many developing countries, to spread throughout society
and destroy everything? Or will we meet the challenge and overcome it no matter how difficult it
might be? In fighting corruption, will we remember to also fight waste, unnecessary expenditure
and complacency?
Self-reliance how do we achieve a measure of self-reliance that will make our growth
sustainable? How do we overcome our great dependence on imports, for example?
These are my concerns. But our people must be reassured that it is not only I, as King, who seeks
the solutions to these problems. We have the government led by the prime minister, the civil
service and members of parliament and local government, who shall all work together to address
these challenges.
I am confident because our people are unique. Our people are proud citizens who love our
country and take it as our sacred duty to serve the nation. As Bhutanese we have so many
qualities to be proud of. The manner, in which we all were united in celebration of my wedding,
is a symbol of the fraternity and brotherhood among our people. It is an auspicious sign, that we
will always come together, in good times and bad, in the interest of our nation. We will always,
together as one, defend and protect our nation. If we are able to preserve this strength of unity
and harmony, we shall overcome all challenges that may come our way.
Before I conclude, in the spirit of national days past, I will present awards to those who have
served our nation and people well.
I end with a prayer for our nation. That the sun of peace and prosperity may always shine on
Bhutan a nation blessed by the teachings of Lord Buddha a Shangrila blessed by the great
Guru Rimpoche and founded by our revered and beloved parent Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal
a country born from the labour of Jigme Singye Wangchuck and the people of Bhutan.

2011 November 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the National Diet of Japan

His Majesty the King visited Japan on a state visit in November, 2011. While in Japan His
Majesty was invited to address the National Diet of Japan. The National Diet is the premier
legislative institution in Japan which comprises of the House of Representatives, and the House
of Councillors.
His Majesty the Kings Address to the National Diet:
With my deep respects to His Majesty the Emperor, Her Majesty the Empress, and the People of
Japan, I hereby accept with great humility this opportunity to address the Diet of the nation of
Japan:
Your Excellency the Speaker of the House of Representatives,
Your Excellency the President of the House of Councilors,
Your Excellency the Prime Minister,
Excellencies, members of this august house,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I stand here before you a young man in the presence of great wisdom, experience and
achievement in an institution of such eminence and consequence in world history. There is
little that I can say to be of much use to you. On the contrary, it is I who shall take away so much
from this historic moment. For this I am grateful.
Jetsun, my wife, and I also thank you for the kind invitation to Japan only one month after our
wedding, and for the warmth with which we have been received. This is an extraordinary gesture
that reflects the generous spirit with which you support the long friendship between our two
countries.
Your Excellencies, before I go any further I must convey to you the prayers and good wishes
of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Government and people of Bhutan. The Bhutanese
people have always held a strong affection for Japan and shared emotionally in the success of
your great nation over the decades.
Following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March it was deeply moving to see so
many Bhutanese visit temples and monasteries around the country offering butter lamps, in their
humble yet genuine efforts to provide comfort and support to the Japanese people. I, myself,
remember watching the news of the tsunami unfold sitting helpless and unable to do anything.
I have waited ever since to be able to say to you that I am deeply sorry for the pain and
suffering of families who lost loved ones for those who lost their livelihoods for the young
whose lives have been completely altered for the nation of Japan that must rebuild life after
such great disaster.
No nation or people should ever have to experience such suffering. And yet if there is one nation
who can rise stronger and greater from such adversity it is Japan and her People. Of this I am
confident. On your path to rebuilding and restoring of lives, we the Bhutanese people stand with
you humble in our power to provide material assistance but heartfelt and true, in our friendship,
solidarity and goodwill.
Your Excellencies, we, in Bhutan, have always thought of the Japanese people as our fellow
brothers and sisters. Our two Peoples are united by our commitment to family, integrity and
honour; to placing the aspirations of the community and country before ones own desires to
raising the common good above the self.
2011 is a special year in our relations it marks the 25th anniversary of our diplomatic ties. Yet,
the Bhutanese people have always had a special affection for Japan that goes beyond our formal
ties. I know that my father and his generation watched with pride as Japan led Asia into the
modern world decades ago as you brought confidence and a sense of an Asian destiny to what
was then a developing region and as you inspired so many countries who have since followed
Japan into the forefront of the world economy. Japan was and continues to be a leader. Even
more so today because in this globalized world Japan is an example of strength in technology
and innovation, of hard work and commitment and of strong age-old values.
The world always identified Japan as a people of great honour, pride and discipline a people
with a proud tradition in history who approach everything with tenacity, determination and a
desire to excel a people of unity in thought and action; of brotherhood and fraternity and
unfailing strength and fortitude.
I must humbly state, that this is not a myth this is a reality that was displayed in your response
to the unfortunate economic recession of past years and to the natural disaster in March. You
displayed the true qualities of Japan and her people. What would have shattered other nations
and caused anarchy, chaos and lament was met by the Japanese people with quiet dignity,
confidence, discipline and strength of heart, even under the worst of circumstances. In our
present world, this combination of excellence with strong roots of culture, tradition and values
is almost impossible to find. Every nation aspires to it yet it is an integral aspect of Japanese
character. These values and qualities were not born yesterday but were born from centuries of
history. They will not disappear in a few years or decades. What a great future lies ahead for a
Japan that possesses such strength.
For this strength has seen Japan rise again and again, throughout history, from every setback to
its status as one of the most successful nations in the world. And even more remarkable is the
manner in which Japan has always, without hesitation, shared her success with people in all
corners of the world.
Your Excellencies, I speak from the heart, and on behalf of all Bhutanese. I am no expert or
academic just a simple man with a deep affection for Japan.
All I am saying is that this world will benefit immensely from a Japan that defines excellence
and innovation; from a Japanese people of great determination and achievement yet quiet dignity
and humility; from a nation that other countries can look to as an example. And as Japan leads
Asia and the world as Japans presence in world affairs reflects the great achievements and
history of the Japanese people, Bhutan will cheer and support you. Bhutan not only believes in
the need to expand the United Nations Security Council, we are convinced that Japan must play a
leading role in it. You have our full commitment and support.
Bhutan is but a small Himalayan nation of about 700,000 people. The countrys enchanting
physical characteristics coupled with a richly compelling history defines every fiber of the
Bhutanese character. It is a beautiful country and in spite of its geographical size across the
length and breadth of its varied topography lie scattered, numerous temples, monasteries and
forts, reflecting the spirituality of generations of Bhutanese. Our environment remains pristine
and our culture and traditions, strong and vibrant. Bhutanese continue to live lives of simplicity
and modesty that foster a deep sense of harmony among our people, as we have done so for
centuries.
Today, in this fast changing world, Im most proud of the manner in which we live in a caring
society where our people value harmony above all where our youth have exceptional talent,
courage and grace and are guided by the values of their forefathers. Our nation is in the able
hands of our young Bhutanese. We are a youthful, modern nation with age-old values. A small
beautiful country but a strong nation too.
Thus, Japans role in the growth and development of Bhutan is therefore very special. You have
not only provided valuable aid and assistance but also been the source of strength and
encouragement as we strive to fulfill our unique aspirations. Your generosity of spirit and the
higher, greater natural bond between our two peoples that is un-definable and yet so deep and
spiritual ensures that Japan will always have a friend in Bhutan.
Japan has been one of the most important development partners for Bhutan. Therefore, I am very
happy to be able to thank the government and the people of Japan who personally lived in
Bhutan and worked with us, for your steadfast support and goodwill for our Bhutanese people. I
hereby pledge that it shall be my constant endeavor to further strengthen and deepen the bonds
between our two people. Once again I convey the prayers and good wishes of the People of
Bhutan to the People of Japan.
With Your Excellencys permission, I would like to say a prayer in my own language May
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress enjoy good health and happiness. And may the sun of
peace, security and prosperity forever shine on the beautiful Nation and People of Japan.
Thank you, Your Excellencies!

2011 November 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at Keio University, Japan
His Majesty the King visited Japan on a state visit in November, 2011. While in Tokyo His
Majesty was conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Economics by Keio University, for the
promotion of the philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
His Majesty the Kings speech at Keio University:
Honorable President,
Honourable Dean,
Members of the faculty,
I thank you for conferring this honour upon me and giving me this opportunity to speak to the
students of this esteemed university.
My dear students,
I have been King, but for 5 years. I can only tell you my own thoughts and experiences and hope
that you take away something from it.
In contemplating how to be a good King for Bhutan, I realized one thing very early on. This
world we live in is forever changing the speed and vastness of the change is astonishing. One
decade is unrecognizable from the last. What we take for granted today, was not imagined
yesterday.
Take for example our mobile phones dont we all love our mobile phones? We use our
phones to capture special moments in our lives, we text our friends and co-workers, it helps us to
conduct our everyday business, we get to speak to our loved ones and receive emails at the same
time. This ingenious technology has completely transformed the manner in which we
communicate with each other, its contribution to democracy, enhancing cohesion in society,
driving up our efficiency all of which is truly invaluable. When I was growing up, the closest
we got to imagine the existence of such technology let alone ever using one was watching
science fiction movies such as Star Trek.
Can you imagine life without mobiles? Its almost unimaginable. And yet in the near future
something else will come to replace this way of life.
This is why I keep thinking about what our generation is going to do. How are we going to tread
this world during our time? What kind of footprints are we going to leave as our generation
leaves this world to our, yet unborn children?
I feel in such a world, of great diversity and change one thing is clear. The independence and
detachment of an individual is growing. In a technologically advanced world, the need to build
small, genuine, human relationships is no longer strong. A global village we may have become,
but with islands of individuals. We have the tools for communication such as the mobile phone,
but not natural and intimate human bonds.
The problems facing the world today they challenge all of us equally. And the solutions to
these challenges must come from a real sense of concern and care for others, for all sentient
beings and, for future generations. We must care about what happens to this earth. That requires
something more than leadership, science or technology it requires Values. Even as I simply
glance through the statistics that reflect the condition of the world today, however accurate the
information may be, its not a pretty picture:
First, lets talk about the environment:
If you listen to these numbers, it is alarming how reckless we have been and continue to be.
Something as fundamental as the environment the Earth has been forsaken for profit:
Glaciers are melting, polar ice caps are thinning and coral reefs are dying. Climate change
threatens the well being of all mankind. Today our consumption of renewable natural resources
is 50% larger than natures capacity to regenerate. Every second, rainforests the size of a football
field disappear Water problems affect half of humanity. It is quite clear now, that we will be
handing to our children, a world which has been, in so many ways, made worse than when we
inherited it.
Now, lets talk about poverty:
In a world that has seen unprecedented material growth the richest countries and people are
richer than ever before:
The poorest 40 percent of the worlds population accounts for only 5 percent of global income
while the richest 20 percent get 75%
24,000 children die each day due to poverty
About half of humanity 3 billion people live in cities of which 1 billion are confined to
slums.
The problems of poorer countries and people are often worsened by corruption which impedes
economic growth and prevents the nurturing of strong and fair political systems both of which
are key to increasing the opportunities for the poor to improve their lives. In developing
countries, bribes alone total $20 to 40 billion a year imagine what it could do for health,
education and economic opportunities for the poor.
Even in advanced nations, corruption has taken root it is simply far more refined and
sophisticated. Poverty brings hardship, suffering and untold misery. We have to be mindful that
with such disparities come disharmony, conflict and ultimately instability on a global scale.
What about health?
1 billion people lack access to proper health care
11 million children under the age of 5 die every year from malnutrition and preventable diseases
300 million suffer serious sickness due to malaria and 1 million die each year
40 million people are living with HIV/AIDS
Then there is the global economy:
The unpredictability and imperfect nature of legislations have caused instability and uncertainty
in poorer countries affecting the already insecure livelihoods of their people
Coupled with military spending the worlds future is even more unpredictable and dangerous.
World military expenditure in 2009 was estimated at $1.5 trillion or about $225 for each person
in the world
The poor countries, most in need of resources are typically the ones with the weakest voice in
how the global economy is shaped
Thus, we are only laying the groundwork for a world of inequality and resentment of future
conflict over resources and livelihoods of continued strife, of terrorism and instability. The list
of global problems goes on and on. And coupled with the rapid growth of the worlds population
from 2 billion in 1930 to 7 billion today and 8 billion by the time we are in our mid-forties
each problem will be multiplied and made worse year by year.
I could summarize everything and put it simply The greatness of science and inventions, of
great philosophers, of enterprise and industry has brought the world immeasurable benefits.
Today we live a life far removed from that of our forefathers. Yet we face new and greater global
challenges. Growth that overlooks inequality, injustice, environmental degradation, unbridled
consumption is ultimately unsustainable. And it will continue to throw in humanitys way greater
problems, until the day, we will not be able to repair the damage.
So what do we do when faced with such great challenges?
The solution to global problems will not just materialize from politics, from great leaders or from
science and technology. The solution will come from us living as citizens of our communities,
our societies, our countries and above all as citizens of the world. As citizens of the world, our
unifying force our strength must also come from something that is not bound by nation,
ethnicity or religion but from fundamental human values. Values of Compassion, Integrity and
Justice. They are as old as mankind and we must bring ourselves to appreciate them and return
them to their due place in our lives, our societies and in our governments.
My utmost hope is that our generation with this unity of aspirations and values as human
beings and equipped with this huge arsenal of science and technology and the lessons of
history will seek the solutions, so desperately needed. I hope we will realize that we are at the
cusp of a fundamental change of thought a social revolution that will change the way humanity
will pursue growth. Our generation is called upon to rethink, to redefine the true purpose of
growth. And in doing so, to find a growth that is truly sustainable.
The letter from the President states that the honorary doctorate is for my promotion of the
philosophy of GNH. What is GNH? Well, it is nothing other than that approach to growth and
development that I have just spoken of.
(My dear friends, let me repeat, our generation has to redefine the true purpose of growth. And
since I know you are all students of economics I place on you the responsibility of finding this
alternative growth path. You must approach this task with sincerity and great sense of
responsibility but above all you must first be good and decent human beings).
In conclusion I pray that you, my dear friends, will find wisdom, courage and determination to
overcome challenges and grasp opportunities; to give you a moral compass towards honorable
lives. I pray that at the end of it all, you will all be able to look back at extraordinary lives free of
regret and full of satisfaction, happiness and fulfillment. And that I will learn, year after year,
with great pride, of all the good you have done as simple human beings.
Thank you, my dear friends, thank you!



2011 August 23: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Graduates Orientation Program
His Majesty the King graced the closing session of the National Graduates Orientation
Program. His Majesty started by introducing Queen-to-be Jetsun Pema to the 1698 students.
His Majesty the Kings Address to the Graduate Students:

This is Jetsun Pema. We will be married soon. When the third King was Paro Penlop, he married
in Ugyen Pelri and Paro dzong on the 1st of October. My father married on the 31st of October
1988 in Punakha. So I decided to set my date on the 13th of October. I have known Jetsun for
many years. We will, as you all know, serve you and the country throughout our lives. I am
happy to introduce you to her today.
Now, as we gather together today, I want to use this opportunity most effectively. I know you are
all aware of most of the things I am going to say. Nonetheless, it is with the hope that it might be
of benefit to you that I will state these things again. If you have questions, feel free to ask.
At this profound moment in your lives, standing poised to begin your careers, you carry the
weight of your parents and your families pride and hopes in you. From me, you have my good
wishes, my faith and trust and above all, my happiness in your success until today.
Today, I want you to reflect on the blessing of being born in Bhutan. I have travelled across the
country and am truly amazed at the beauty and spirituality of our nation. It is a jewel born from
Guru Rimpoches blessings.
Fundamental to the strength and beauty of our nation is our cultural heritage our traditions and
customs the bond between children and their parents, teachers and elders. The trust and faith
among friends, neighbours and the community. These are unwritten and unspoken values passed
from generation to generation for centuries. These values are inherent in all of us. Yet, it takes
proper reflection to truly understand and nurture them in this modern world.
With the coming of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, each era has brought a leader of destiny to
safeguard our nation and our heritage. Some nations around the world have lost not only their
independence but their cultures and traditions and way of life. In our hour of great uncertainties
and challenges, came our third and fourth Druk Gyalpos. With their far-sighted leadership, the
steadfast friendship of India and the hard work and dedication of our people, this modern nation
has been born. And the greatest fruit of all these labours has been the birth of democracy. Now,
the duty of carrying this special nation to a brighter future falls on us.
Do not be complacent. In this day there are so many graduates. I know that most of you will
know the importance of working hard. So to the few of you, who might feel that being graduates,
everything will happen for you, I must warn you. You will be left behind. If you do not have the
desire to learn, to work hard and to show determination, I am afraid you will be left behind or at
best outdated. One day you will suffer for this complacency. If there is anything your heart
desires, anything you want to achieve, the time to start is now. Dont be afraid of challenges and
obstacles. There is no merit, for an individual or a nation, to avoid or hide from challenges. As
we move forward into uncharted waters, we must find solutions to challenges with foresight,
wisdom and tact. Therefore, these age-old values that we inherit from one generation and pass on
to the next will be fundamental to our success.
In talking of our age-old values let me say a few words on one aspect of it our Driglam
Chhoesum our cultural traditions of etiquette. Many educated Bhutanese today might say that
these are the little things we do such as lowering our heads, or our kabneys and standing in the
presence of higher authorities. That is not true. It is neither subservience nor the currying of
favour that some people have reduced it to be. As you go forward in life, you will, as individuals,
need two things more than anything else education and character. There is a Bhutanese saying
that one can make a living from having good character. How do you speak to and treat others?
Are you easy for your colleagues to work with? Do your supervisors find it convenient to place
responsibilities on you? Do your friends and family place their faith and trust in you? These are
very important things to consider. If you place all your hopes for your future in the education you
have, it is not enough. You must also know the difference between good and evil, between right
and wrong, between compassion and self-interest. You must know how to live a live of
moderation and balance. No matter how well educated or capable you think you are, you must
also make it easy for others to appreciate you, to offer you work, or to place important
responsibilities on your shoulders. In the west, they sometimes refer to it as emotional
intelligence. Our Driglam Chhoesum simply applies our age-old values to our daily lives and
ensures that as we pursue individual goals and ambitions, we do so in harmony with others that
our individual successes will build a strong, united and harmonious nation.
Lastly, because I am King and I take my duty seriously, I have no aspirations or ambitions for
myself. It is your aspirations and your hopes that I adopt as my own and I will spend my life
trying to achieve them. So you must have great ambitions and hopes for yourself and for our
country.

2011 July 15: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Convocation Ceremony of the Royal
University of Bhutan
His Majesty the King graced the convocation ceremony of the graduates from eight colleges
under the Royal University of Bhutan. His Majesty spoke at length to the graduates and
individually awarded degree certificates to 1088 students.
On the start of democracy and its future in Bhutan
On this issue, I can only repeat what I recently told the newly elected Gups recently. Our main
priorities are the peace, prosperity, security and sovereignty of Bhutan. Towards these goals, we
must all work together in first safeguarding our strong foundation of unity and harmony. In our
small society, divisions and cleavages can manifest themselves in very destructive ways. We
have seen this in other larger countries and the great price they have had to pay. Ngalop,
Sharchop, Lhotshampa, Christians, Hindu, Buddhist, me against you, us against them some
people might resort to such useless and irrelevant classifications in their work and dealings with
each other. In todays world, it is more important that we worry about haves and have-nots
economic disparity. I always say, in the past, we were all equally poor. Today, with growing
prosperity, we in Bhutan must be mindful of the threat posed by economic disparities within
society. Its unfortunate and lasting effects can be seen in so many nations around the world.
I think the beginnings of democracy in Bhutan have been very successful. However, it will take
constant work and commitment to make it a lasting success. Its a long process during which we
must deeply contemplate each step so that we do what is right. Mistakes we make today will be
irreversible. We cannot falter on our path to a vibrant democracy with an equal and just society.
There is no room for divisions and disparities in society.
We must always remember that the ultimate goal of all Bhutanese is the peace, security and
sovereignty of our country. I am not speaking only of the physical defense of the nation. The
armed forces, without hesitation, will sacrifice their lives to protect our nation and your security.
I am confident of this. I am speaking of the peace and security that comes when we, at all times,
are united in our love for our country through an abiding respect for our culture, values, laws and
the national interest. This is the unique unifying Bhutanese character as individuals and as a
nation, which must be nurtured for all time.
On Kidu for the weakest sections of the population and on Land Kidu
People must feel ownership over democratic growth. Public apathy is a democracy killer.
However, for ownership to be nurtured, our people must have a stake in it. Land ownership is the
ultimate share or investment that a person has in the success of his or her nation. From this can
be built his or her future and the future of their children. It is for this reason that I have since my
first address to parliament, always worked on land reforms in rural Bhutan.
For the future, due to the limited land available and growing urbanization, I feel we must shift
focus from land ownership to home ownership by families. Creating equal stake in the country
for all our people will be the key to the success of democracy.
On the system of Kabneys and Patangs creating inequalities in society
The solution to inequality is not in doing away with the kabney and patang. To understand the
system of kabneys and patangs, you must first understand that our nation is a unique, small
spiritual nation where our forefathers viewed their responsibilities to their fellow citizen and the
nation in a special way. They were deeply connected to each other and to the country. They
thought of service for the greater good as their duty. Thus, into such a nation, was born a unique
system of kabneys and patangs based on merit. The kabney is the namza of the Buddha, of saints.
It serves to remind the bearer of the need to carry out ones duties with humility, compassion,
justice and integrity. The patang is the tool of a warrior signifying the pledge that one has made
to sacrifice oneself in the service of the nation. This is the tradition of patang and kabney I
believe in, and the one which I hope inspires those who wear them. Being based on merit,
kabneys and patangs are important in recognizing duties, achievements and values. The system
is fine except for one small problem. In general, kabneys and patangs represent the office and not
the individual, yet, some people continue to wear them even when their term in that office is
over.
The problem of inequality is a much greater issue which should be addressed through bridging
economic disparities at the national level, learning to respect one another irrespective of wealth
or status at the individual level, and through the great social equalizer education.
On the importance of honest and frank communication between young Bhutanese and His
Majesty
Your views and thoughts are important to me. I want to know what they are, not change them.
And while my advice and guidance to you may not always be pearls of wisdom, they will always
be the truth.
On building their future
As young citizens, all of you must be contemplating with excitement, the future ahead for
yourself and for Bhutan. The future of the nation rests in the hands of her individual citizens.
Each of us must first be able to stand up and realize our own potential as individuals. Then we
must fulfill our obligations to build loving, united and strong families.
Further upon these, we then build our higher allegiance and commitment to society and the
country. There is complete interdependence in the relationship between these elements of a
nation. Whatever goals you set for yourself, as you go out to fulfill them, do so with the right
values values that enrich your own life and the lives of those whom you touch on your journey.
Gain the wisdom to achieve your personal goals and ambitions in harmony with others as they
strive to achieve theirs. Acquire the right skills and knowledge but remember that learning is a
lifelong process. Utilize the experience that comes from your personal efforts as you go but do
not forget to use the vast experience that exists in history. I hope these words will be of use to
you at the start of this new chapter in your lives.

2011 July 12: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the Dhar Ceremony for Gups elects

In an unprecedented and historic gesture, His Majesty the King granted dhar andkabney to the
190 Gups who were elected in the first historic local government elections of 27 June
2011. The award of kabney to Gups by His Majesty is unprecedented and symbolises the
importance and apolitical nature of local governments in the new governance era.
His Majesty the Kings Address to the Gups:
I say, with happiness and great satisfaction, that in the few years since 2008, we have conducted
the general elections, adopted the Constitution, and formed the houses of Parliament,
constitutional bodies, and the Supreme Court. And today we have accomplished yet another
milestone, in establishing the first local governments under democracy. We have, therefore, laid
all the founding pillars of democracy in Bhutan so early in my reign, as I fulfill the vision of my
father, His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo, of a vibrant democracy.
Today on this most auspicious occasion, let me take this opportunity to share some of my
thoughts with you.
It gives me immense pleasure to congratulate the representatives of the gewogs of the 20
dzongkhags and to thank them for having come forward to serve their communities. I am also
grateful to the Election Commission of Bhutan, civil servants, armed forces and volunteers. With
your hard work and the prayers of the Dratshang, we have conducted the historic first local
government elections under democracy. I appreciate the efforts made by many people to travel
and vote in their constituencies, in the spirit of democratic participation.
As a symbol of the independence and importance of local government, I am awarding your
kabneys from the Throne. However, as you carry out your duties, remember you are not there to
seek status, wealth or fame. Your primary goal is to serve the people without prejudice and bias
and to always hold the interest of the nation above all. As citizens of a spiritual nation, be
compassionate and fulfill the aspirations of the people with the highest standards of integrity.
We elected officials, government and the King are all here to serve our nation and people.
I must remind you that in democracy there are no winners and losers. Those who are capable and
desirous of serving their country and people should come forward and stand for elections. Those,
whom the people choose, must then serve without fear or favour. If we can do this, then
democracy succeeds and the nation wins.
Democracy did not come to us overnight. It was a carefully planned process full of hard work
and sacrifice, led by His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo. Dzongkhag Yargay Tshogdus were
established as far back as 1980 and Gewog Yargay Tshogchungs in 1990. Decentralization and
empowerment of the grassroots has been a constant process, culminating in the transfer of
powers from the Throne to the people under democracy. In the exercise of these powers, local
governments are invaluable to the people.
That is why, first of all, I want to dispel a false perception. Local government is NOT the lowest
level of government; it is the nearest and closest level of government for our people. For rural
Bhutanese, local governments are indispensible avenues for participation in democracy and
development. In the long run, the success of democracy in Bhutan will be determined by the
success of local governments.
We are a small landlocked country, and our highest goals are the peace, prosperity, security and
sovereignty of our nation. It is an important responsibility of Gups to ensure a harmonious and
united society. In standing for elections, you sought the votes of the majority. In carrying out
your duties you must gain the trust and faith of all the people. You must have intimate
knowledge of the daily lives of the people in your constituencies; work in constant and close
interaction with them and nurture cooperation, consensus and close-knit communities. In a
largely rural country you are important not just in carrying out vital duties towards achieving
development objectives of the people, but also in bringing about a harmonious and united
society.
You might think that I have detailed your duties and responsibilities and the importance of local
government, but have said few words of felicitation and praise for your success in the elections.
Your work is yet to begin, and praise will not solve any of the problems facing our people. If,
after five years, I find that you have served your constituencies well, that you have worked hard
and without prejudice, and that above all, you have not hurt the sentiments of my people, I will
be the first to commend and praise your achievements.

2011 May 20: Royal Address to the 7th Session of Parliament
It is now almost three years and three months since the start of democracy. Our nation has so
much to be proud of. The first years of democracy have been a great success, made possible by
the blessings of the Dharma and our Guardian Deities and the foundations laid through the
selfless efforts of our forefathers and Kings and the good fortune and karma of the People of
Bhutan.

Our generation embarked on a profound process of democratization, with little experience but
armed with the strength of our unity of vision and aspirations. Our people, government, religious
institutions and bodies, private sector, media, legislature, constitutional bodies, judiciary and the
armed forces have all served the country well under this new system, and have worked to slowly
shape a strong and effective democracy. Through your hard work, it has been possible in the
midst of such a dramatic transition to oversee the vast socio-economic development plans and
projects we had in the 10th 5-year plan.

The government has worked tirelessly in all sectors such as hydropower, tourism, agriculture and
industries. Remote villages are being connected with roads and electricity is being made
accessible to villages while education and health facilities are being broadened or improved. Our
traditions and cultural values continue to be strengthened and rural lhakangs are being renovated.
The government has moved with intensified efforts to renew foreign relations according to the
changing times. I am happy that our relations with India are as strong as ever. The people of
Bhutan must appreciate all these efforts being made by the government.

In spite of all our achievements and the peace and prosperity we have experienced for so long
in fact because of this success we must remember to never be complacent. If even a small
fraction of the problems that plague other nations appear in Bhutan, our small society will be
forever afflicted and we may never regain our jewel of a nation.

As we move forward, we must be guided by the most sacred and unchanging national goals the
security and sovereignty of our Nation and the peace, unity and harmony of our People. Today,
as I have said before, our immediate and foremost duty is the success of democracy. That is our
foundation for the future success of Bhutan. But democracy can only flourish if all Bhutanese
uphold the rule of law; if there is good governance; if corruption is eradicated and if the delivery
of public services is fair and effective.

As a small landlocked nation, the only way for us to fulfill these is to carry out our duties
through cooperation, sharing and consultation. I know that each ministry, government institution,
parliamentary body or public agencies has its own mandate. Still, you must work together, not in
competition. Henceforth, I ask all of you to establish the practice of meeting regularly, sitting
face to face every now and then, so that you will always be in collaboration as you carry out your
separate responsibilities. And all problems may be resolved without being allowed to fester and
grow. Such shared effort will be in the true spirit of Gross National Happiness.

Today, at this auspicious gathering, I would like to make a short announcement to all the people
of the 20 Dzongkhags.

As King, it is now time for me to marry. After much thought I have decided that the wedding
shall be later this year.

Now, many will have their own idea of what a Queen should be like that she should be
uniquely beautiful, intelligent and graceful. I think with experience and time, one can grow into a
dynamic person in any walk of life with the right effort. For the Queen, what is most important is
that at all times, as an individual she must be a good human being, and as Queen, she must be
unwavering in her commitment to serve the People and Country.

As my queen, I have found such a person and her name is Jetsun Pema. While she is young, she
is warm and kind in heart and character. These qualities together with the wisdom that will come
with age and experience will make her a great servant to the nation.

This union does not mean that I am starting my own family. From the very day I received
the Dhar Ngay-Nga from the sacred Machhen, the people of the 20 Dzongkhags became my
family. Such is the duty and privilege of all Kings of Bhutan. It is through this union, that I shall
have a Queen who will support, and work with me, as I serve the People and Country.

The wedding will be in accordance with age-old tradition, to seek the blessings of our Guardian
Deities. I ask the government not to make any plans for a grand celebration. The happiness of my
beloved father and the blessings of our People will give me the greatest joy and happiness.

2010 December 17: Royal Address delivered during the National Day of Bhutan
Before the Royal Address, His Majesty The King expressed condolences to the families of the
victims of the air crash in Nepal. His Majesty said that he has been deeply saddened by the loss
and offered a thousand butter lamps in Tashichho Dzong yesterday. His Majesty said that the
Zhung Dratshang would conduct prayers for the departed. His Majesty also thanked the
Nepalese people and government for their wholehearted support following the air crash.
~
My dear people,

As King, I have been deeply blessed by the satisfaction of seeing immense achievements in four
short years, made possible only by the harmonious bond between the people and government, as
we worked hand in hand.

We have conducted our first general elections, formed the government and opposition, instituted
the National Assembly and National Council and above all, following elaborate deliberations by
our honourable members of Parliament, we adopted our sacred and historic Constitution. We
have all worked together towards strengthening our democratic institutions and this year
established the Supreme Court of Bhutan.

As a developing country, socio-economic development efforts are vital. In this regard, the Prime
Minister and the government have not only worked hard on successfully implementing the
crucial 10th 5-year plan but have also initiated many new projects for the benefit of our people.

For the peace, happiness and prosperity we enjoy today, I take this opportunity to voice on behalf
of our people, gratitude to the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck. On my own
behalf, I shall never forget the kindness, loyalty and faith with which you, my people, have
supported me at the beginning of my own reign.

In times of such peace and prosperity, as good Bhutanese, we must reflect on our responsibilities
in further strengthening our nation. We all know that we shoulder responsibilities based on our
professions whether they be in the civil service, business or even as parents and teachers. We
know we must excel in these duties in order to succeed as individuals and as a nation.

However, there is a higher responsibility not written in any legal document but instead
enshrined in humanity and history a natural responsibility and duty that we all must shoulder
equally, irrespective of who we are. Of paramount importance to the strength of a nation, is the
ability of her people to live as one united family a community in which interaction is marked
by trust, understanding and cooperation.

What is this natural responsibility?

I am young, but as King it is my duty to offer, after deep reflection and prayer, my own thoughts
and guidance on how we strengthen our nation as a unique Bhutanese people. To me, natural
responsibility means upholding values such as integrity, justice and compassion and above all
living by that unwritten but absolute code of right over wrong, no matter what it is we are trying
to achieve as individuals or as a nation. After all, while the objectives are important, the manner
in which we achieve these objectives is a far more important indicator of our strength as a nation.
We must achieve everything as a united harmonious family. I truly believe that it would be a
great service to the nation if, as individuals, we always treat each other with respect and dignity.

This is why natural responsibilities are important, for if we understand and fulfill them then, it is
only normal that we will be a society in which there is complete trust in each other. And once
this becomes the character of society, then regard, faith and respect will come naturally.

I have always said these unwritten, unseen but profound values have been a part of our heritage
inherited from our forefathers. However, I have also said that we face the danger that they might
be weakened and lost over time, in the face of so many changes in the world and our nation. A
family in which there is deep discord between parent and child or brother and sister is unlikely to
achieve anything that leads to lasting happiness. As a nation, it is no different. Today we have
great aspirations the peace, stability, security and sovereignty of the nation; strengthening of
our new democracy; equitable socio-economic growth to achieve GNH and; nurturing our youth
to one day lead a nation greatly strengthened by our hard work and commitment. To achieve all
this we need trust and faith in our relationships between the government and people; between
institutions of government and; between people ourselves. With the harmony and unity born of
these relationships, we will achieve our aspirations and find peace, prosperity and gross national
happiness.

In short let me say, if we uphold values such as unity, harmony, integrity, trust, justice and peace
if we respect their great importance then it will be reflected in a strong civil society. A strong
civil society is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

In 2008 when I became King, I promised you that, throughout my reign I will never rule you as
a King. I will protect you as a parent, care for you as a brother and serve you as a son. I shall
give you everything and keep nothing; I shall live such a life as a good human being that you
may find it worthy to serve as an example for your children; I have no personal goals other than
to fulfill your hopes and aspirations. I shall always serve you, day and night, in the spirit of
kindness, justice and equality.

I have always taken every decision and carried out every action with this promise in mind. In all
my work, I consider my personal interactions with the people to be of greatest importance.
Wherever I travel, I make it a point to enter every household and meet every family. Besides this,
I have also tried to meet every day, small groups of people from all walks of life. In the two
years since 2008, I have met about fifty thousand such people in my home. It is a source of great
happiness for me that I am able to meet you, my people. With the old, I have the satisfaction of
being able to express personal gratitude for their long service to the nation. With the young, I
build the beginnings of a life-long relationship through which we will serve the people and
nation together.

During one such meeting, a young civil servant asked me what is our country going to be like in
the next 15 years?. I told him that while fifty or sixty years hence is unknowable, the next
fifteen years are easier to contemplate. After all, it is in this period of time that the fruits of our
actions today will take shape. Our generation has immense tasks ahead of us the foremost
being the building of a vibrant democracy, the foundations for which have been built by the
fourth Druk Gyalpo.

Let us nurture what we have begun so well, so that our nation shall reap the rewards of strong
democracy for all time to come. Secondly, we must ensure equitable distribution of the fruits of
our nations rapid growth and progress. Third, we must never set each other apart based on
religion, regionalism or ethnicity. We must always refer to ourselves as citizens of Bhutan, all
equal and all alike. If we can fulfill these tasks then the nations future in fifteen years is not only
bright but we will have paved the road for even greater success in the decades beyond.

Lastly I end with a prayer for our nation. That the sun of peace and prosperity may always shine
on Bhutan a nation blessed by the teachings of Lord Buddha a Shangrila blessed by the great
Guru Rimpoche and founded by our revered and beloved parent Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal
a country born from the labour of Jigme Singye Wangchuck and the people of Bhutan.

Tashi Delek!

2010 October 23: Royal Address at Doon School, Dehradun, India
Your Excellency Shrimati Patil, President of India, Your Excellencies, Dignitaries, Doon
Alumni, Chairman Analjit, Board members, Headmaster and students of Doon School,

I am delighted to be here at an important milestone in the history of an exceptional institution.
We have all heard of Doon but I see the true worth of the school, in the presence of such a large
number of alumni here today and in the commitment with which Doon Alumni of all ages, serve
their alma mater.

One must appreciate such a special lifetime bond between a school and her students. Even in my
own country, I always ask people, whether they are civil servants or businessmen, to maintain
close links with their old schools in rural Bhutan. With personal attention, they would be able to
do so much more for their school and for the young students graduating from it. Doon school is
of course different but the essence is the same. You give back to the institution that nurtured and
shaped you and in doing so you share the fruits of your education with those that come after you.
The bond between Doon school and her students has far deeper meaning than one sees at first,
and the need for such bonds extends beyond Doon to other academic institutions, to societies and
to nations. I commend the Old Boys of Doon and say to you, that your example is one to be
emulated.

To the students of Doon I will keep my words short so you can enjoy the rest of your special
day with your friends and family.

Youth is all about energy, action, playfulness, fun, mischief, learning, friendships so many
wonderful things. I envy you you have so much to look forward to your first kiss for some of
you; first girlfriend; true love; riding a bike or driving a car or travelling away from home for the
first time; the freedom of university life; the innocence and purity of youth I envy you and I
urge you, live your youth to the full. Celebrate these joyful urges. Enjoy everything that student
life and youth have to offer.

When it is time to study study. If you are going to play sports, do it with full drive and energy.
Approach everything you do with passion and absorb and enjoy the experience whether youre
learning to play a guitar, climb mountains or hit a cricket ball. Enjoy your school life to the full.
This is your time.

In this modern world, there is the danger that the force of competition and eagerness to overcome
challenges ahead will take out the joy in learning and growing. I know there are certain
realities we face as children and as parents and that we are all trying to adapt to a changing world
but challenges are a part of life as you grow older life is going to bring enough of them:
university admissions; getting the right job; failure; sorrow at the loss of loved ones; trying to
keep up with your neighbours and colleagues; betrayal; sickness; the list is endless. But the fact
that life is full of challenges does not mean that you should stop being young. Someone said,
Life is a marathon, dont make a hundred meter dash today! You will burn out early on in the
race. Pace yourself wisely and remember it is not how you begin the game that matters it is how
youve played it in the end. Yes, I know, all of you want to get into a good university but there is
a big difference in preparing for university and preparing for life. In the preparation for life, there
can be nothing better than a well-rounded education and wholesome growth of character. For
that you have to live your life as a young man to the full.

Now, I must have read this many years ago in some magazine or on a greeting card. Live each
day as if it is the first youve ever seen and the last youll ever see. I dont think it means we
should leave everything behind, be irresponsible and reckless and do whatever we want. No, it
means, every day gives us the fresh chance to strive for something important to us that its
never too late to strive for greatness.

And if we imagine each day as the last day well ever see we gain the confidence to make the
right choices in life to aim for what our heart truly desires; we gain the confidence not to be
carried by the current of other peoples thoughts; the guts to do what is right; to withstand the
fear of failure or embarrassment; to push away the distractions and focus on what is truly
valuable to us. You will even find the courage to finally speak to the girl of your dreams!

Today everything is about success. Everyone wants to be successful and in this day and age
success is inevitably equated with money and power. But is that success? What is true success?
This is a question philosophers might vex over! For me real success needs so many ingredients: a
happy school life; true friendships; good health; a job one loves; a sense of worth to oneself and
others; strong family relationships, good marriages; the ability to appreciate nature; living in
harmony with others around us; so many things.

To make young boys crave for success in life today is to ask too much. But to ask young boys
to be good human beings that I think is the right education.

You see, success in not an individual thing. As a student how successful are you really if you do
not have true friendships and experiences that help you grow as young man? As a man, how
successful are you if happiness as a son, father or husband eludes you? And finally as an Indian
how can you truly succeed unless Mother India and your fellow Indian brothers and sisters
succeed? As human beings we have an inherent duty to others. Thus, we will most likely find
true success and happiness when we combine our ambitions and goals with being a good human
being.

Where do you see yourself in the future? What do you want to achieve? What would make you
happy when you turn 50 or 60 and look back on your life? Is it going to be one full of
satisfaction and fulfillment or will it be one of regrets? I dont know.

But the one thing I can tell you is that you are at the beginning of a long journey. You are young
life will be full of opportunities but as your life unfolds you will find life is not without
challenges. The question is, at the end of it all, what is story of your life going to be?

Let me share my experience with you.

I always imagine my life as a book, not a real book but a book that I am engaged in writing.
When I do this, I find that every moment brings the urge and energy to do something special,
something worthy to write into the book. When I am confronted by some challenge, I find the
opportunity to write a wonderful tale of hardship, suffering, hard work, determination and
commitment. When faced by the temptation to take short cuts and cheat, the book serves as my
conscience.

Doing this gives me wonderful perspective. I find that success does not go to my head and failure
does not crush me. As events unfold, I am able to keep my eyes on the ultimate goal to live a
life without regret a life that would make wonderful reading. After all, like anyone else, I want
the story of my life to be as good as possible.

Please try it for yourself. It would make me so happy if it helps you even a little. I pray that
each of you will be a good human being leading honorable lives on which one day you will look
back with great pride, satisfaction and fulfillment. Above all, I pray for your personal well-being
and happiness.

Finally, to the families of students, I hope you do not mind that it is a young man from Bhutan
who has stood here speaking to your children about life especially as I have no children of my
own! Let me say I may not be an expert, but memories of my own childhood are very vivid while
yours might be fading! I am of course joking.

On a serious note, even as King, I have no other duty than to work for the long-term future of my
country. And because the obvious fact is that the future of a country must mirror the quality of
her younger citizens, I spend most of my time with students and youth. It is one of the most
enjoyable aspects of my work. I want to thank all the parents for giving me this opportunity to
speak to your children, who no doubt, I will one day meet as leaders around the world.

Thank you all for listening to me. Students, I will be spending this evening with you. I look
forward to conversing with you about whatever interests you have and things you want to talk
about.

Thank you, Your Excellency. Thank you everyone.

2010 October 21: Royal Address at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Defence
College, New Delhi
Most Honourable President of India,
Your Excellencies,
Dignitaries,
NDC family,

I remember vividly my days at the National Defence College. I can recall looking at the plaque
bearing Pandit Nehrus speech at the entrance of the building, as I walked in on my first day.
From that moment on, every time I attended classes, presentations or various NDC activities, I
was constantly reminded of Pandit Nehru. Not simply the words on the plaque though
profound they are.

Its the spirit of Nehru one can always sense the complete dedication and commitment to
country in Pandit Nehrus every word and action. And throughout my stay here, I found that the
institution of NDC, embodies that noble spirit.

There is a sense of purpose in the establishing of the NDC, the activities it undertakes and the
manner in which every senior Indian official who attends NDC approaches their stint here. This
singular purpose is the strengthening of Mother India. I have great admiration for the institution
and for the people who have been through its doors and gone on to serve India so well.

The high standards of achievement, experience and commitment shown by those at NDC are a
direct result of the achievements of India as a nation, and herald the immensely bright future
ahead.

I came to NDC as the Crown Prince of a friendly country. I came to learn and to be a part of the
Indian family. Yet, I shall remember my year in Delhi at the NDC for one thing optimism.
Why? I saw, up close, in my interactions with leaders in government, civil service or private
sector my daily work at the NDC and personal experiences throughout the city the
immensely bright future for India. And as Indias closest friend and neighbour, this bright future
augured nothing but the best for Bhutan as well. I came to India in early 2005 as a friend of
India, appreciative of the role of India in Bhutans progress. I left a year later, as the staunchest
proponent of Indo-Bhutan friendship as the key to Bhutans future, even in this new globalized
world.

Your Excellency, my dear friends, India is a world leader. It is not her economic or military
might alone above all, it is the character of the Indian nation her commitment to democracy,
to engendering global equality among nations, to liberty. This noble Indian character is directly
reflected in the unique steadfast friendship she, a giant of a nation in every respect, has forged
with a small Himalayan neighbour.

My friends, when I came to the NDC, I had no idea at the time that my father would abdicate in
2006. So I had a year in which I had the freedom and time to experience the social and cultural
life of Delhi; and the good fortune to meet and learn from many of Indias senior leaders in
government and business and above all, to make friends for life. When I look back, I feel it was
destiny that gave me the most wonderful opportunity to spend my final year before becoming
King, in India. Thus, coming to NDC is one of the best decisions I have made. My love and
affection for India and her people was further strengthened by a complete faith in the greatness
of India and the bright future ahead for our two nations.

Before I conclude, I must say, Your Excellency, that it is a special honour to be in the presence
of the President of India for whom I have the highest regard and respect. I would also like to
express my gratitude to the Government of India for the warmth and kindness with which they
have received me and arranged my visit. I thank the Commandant of NDC and its esteemed
faculty for the excellent preparations and for inviting me. I am delighted to be back, especially to
have been reunited with my friends from the 45th Course. What a wonderful time we had
yesterday evening.

Ladies and gentlemen, you know that I consider myself a part of the Indian family and nothing
makes me happier than being able to return to India. So I thank you for having me here and I
look forward to many more meetings in the future.

Long live Indo-Bhutan friendship!



2010 October 05: Royal Address by King Jigme Khesar at the Calcutta University
Convocation, Calcutta University, Kolkata, October 5, 2010.

Honorable Chancellor and members of the University, distinguished guests, and my dear
students of the University of Calcutta,

You may have in the past had as speakers, leaders from your society and country whom you
could identify with and might even wish to emulate. Sometimes you would have had speakers
from beyond India, who were nonetheless familiar as famous leaders in their respective fields. I
fit in neither of these categories. Still, I feel so much at home and among friends as I stand here
today. After all, India is Bhutans closest neighbour and friend and beyond that, the great state of
West Bengal has been Bhutans partner and comrade since time immemorial. I feel privileged to
be here at this august institution and I feel a deep sense of happiness in being among so many of
Bhutans young friends. I thank you all for this opportunity.

Today, I am here to share my thoughts and experiences with you, people of my own generation,
who face the same challenges and opportunities that I do. I am here for a simple conversation,
and only hope you will take away something from it.

I dont want to talk about what the world should do or what countries should do or about great
subjects and issues and what leaders must do. Instead, let us talk about what we, the youth,
should do and how we should live our lives as individuals about how we are going to tread this
earth during our time. What kind of footprints are we going to leave as our generation gives way
to that of our yet unborn children?

To do so, first of all, lets get an idea of the kind of world we have been born into the one you
are entering after this convocation. It is not a pretty picture, I must warn you.

Now, these facts and figures that I quote are easily available anywhere, and one quick glance on
the web will give you much more information than I can read out to you today.

First, lets talk about the environment:
If you listen to these numbers, it is alarming how reckless we have been and continue to be.
Something as fundamental as the environment the Earth has been forsaken for profit:
Up to 70% of the worlds known species risk extinction if the global temperatures rise by more
than 3.5 degrees centigrade.
Every second, rainforests the size of a football field disappear
Water problems affect half of humanity
Glaciers are receding
Often as a direct result of the disrespect for the environment, natural disasters become more
frequent and forceful. Very recently, disasters have struck Ladakh and most parts of Pakistan
The costs of natural disasters can set back a community or nation by decades not to speak of
the lasting emotional damage inflicted on the people affected

Yet, sadly, there is not much hope for quick global action that is so essential. As we all know, the
efforts to build global cooperation towards a lasting solution have been failing regularly. It seems
the interests of humanity always lose out when faced with the interests of individuals. It is quite
clear now, that we will be handing to our children, a world which has been, in so many ways,
made worse than when we inherited it.

Now, lets talk about poverty:
In a world that has seen unprecedented material growth:
The poorest 40 percent of the worlds population accounts for only 5 percent of global income
while the richest 20 percent get 75%
More than 1 billion people live on less than a dollar a day
24,000 children die each day due to poverty
About half of humanity 3 billion people live in cities of which 1 billion are confined to
slums.
The problems of poorer countries and people are often worsened by corruption.In developing
countries, bribes alone total $20 to 40 billion a year imagine what it could do for health,
education and economic opportunities for the poor.
Poverty brings hardship, suffering and untold misery to the poor. But those in richer
communities or nations should be mindful that with such disparities come disharmony, conflict
and ultimately instability on a global scale.

What about health?
1 billion people lack access to proper health care
11 million children under the age of 5 die every year from malnutrition and preventable
diseases
300 million suffer serious sickness due to malaria and 1 million die each year
40 million people are living with HIV/AIDS of which only 4 million have access to
antiretroviral treatment
All this in a world that prides itself on scientific achievement. We can send people to the moon
but we cant find out how to get essential medicines into the hands of those who need it the most.

Then there is the global economy:
The unpredictability and imperfect legislation of advanced economies has caused instability
and uncertainty in poorer countries affecting the already insecure livelihoods of their people
Coupled with military spending the worlds future is even more unpredictable and dangerous.
World military expenditure in 2009 was estimated at $1.5 trillion or about $225 for each person
in the world
The poor countries, most in need of resources are typically the ones with the weakest voice in
how the global economy is shaped
Thus, we are only laying the groundwork for a world of inequality and resentment of future
conflict over resources and livelihoods of continued strife, of terrorism and instability.

The list of global problems goes on and on. And coupled with the rapid growth of the worlds
population from 2 billion in 1930 to 6.8 billion today and 8 billion in the next 10 to 15 years.
That is something to think about.

I could summarize everything and put it simply The greatness of humanity, of science and
inventions, of great philosophers, of enterprise and industry has undoubtedly brought the world
immeasurable benefits. Today we live a life far removed from that of our forefathers. Yet, we
face new and greater global challenges. Why? Because growth that overlooks inequality,
injustice, environmental degradation, unbridled consumption is ultimately unsustainable. And it
will continue to throw in humanitys way greater and greater problems, until one day when we
will not be able to repair the damage.

So what do we do when our generation is faced with such great challenges? I suppose we must
first acknowledge, even as we contemplate the sad statistics that define our predicament that one
lesson history has taught us is that we are the authors of our own global problems.

I believe that every generation has faced its great challenges as far back as we can find the
history for. And every generation has ultimately realized, often too late that humanity faces
its darkest moments when we forsake the very characteristics that make us truly extraordinary
living beings our human Conscience our Values.
As we begin to play our role from the moment you leave this hall let us not speak of world
leaders and great nations let us demand answers from ourselves, as individuals. What is our
role? Did we ever sit down and think about this while at university? Some of us will have done
so but most of us feel limited in our capacity to make real change most of us would think
we are young we are not billionaires or world leaders or famous celebrities we are students
fresh out of college it is difficult enough for a young person to survive to make a living
shouldnt it be world leaders who make a change in the world?

This is the flaw this waiting for saviors why must the world wait for a few individuals to be
born? In a way, the environment we live in inculcates in us this outlook to life those words we
use so often at university competition, future, jobs, income, investment and other such words
nothing wrong with the words except that we have slowly become their victims not their
masters. In the absence of other ways to qualify and evaluate success in education, we equate
success with money or power. Even Mahatma Gandhi during his time felt that we had no idea
what education really meant and how to put a value to it. It is the same today. We know what we
get if we work hard, a good degree and find a good job we get a nice car, nice house and the
appreciative admiration of others. We dont know what we get exactly from being honest, just
and compassionate. The benefits from this do not accrue so easily or visibly. But as Gandhiji
said, an education which does not teach us to discriminate between good and bad, to assimilate
the one and eschew the other, is a misnomer.

For our generation, no matter what we have all studied in university or where we are from, we
have been born into a world where it is more likely that we will pursue material rewards more
than what is morally right that we will follow the path of individualism at the cost of
community and fraternity. This is the direction we have been pointed towards by the kind of
growth the world has pursued.

How unfortunate for if we take this path then no matter how much scientific or material
progress is made in our lifetimes, global problems will prevail, in fact multiply and we will
continue to endanger each other and the future of our children.

But how wonderful if we decide today that we will make the effort, as individuals, to try and
solve global problems, to make the world a better place for our children and for the less fortunate
among us. If we decide to change the way we are expected to think and behave. If we, in this
room, seize this chance to do things differently. If we act without waiting for great leaders to be
born. If we can believe in the extraordinary potential of simple human values then . We can be
the generation that made the difference the generation with a conscience the generation that
the world has waited for, for so long.

None of us here may have, today, the wealth or skills to combat natural disasters or plug the
ozone layer or remove world poverty. But we know that there is one thing we can change that
is ourselves. That is the most important thing that is the one obvious starting point in our quest
to find a solution to global problems ones self. As Gandhiji said, Be the change you want to
see.

Do not feel alone, small or inconsequential. Too often leadership is associated with one great
person giving an inspiring sermon to the masses and leading them to greater heights. I would be
happy with this version of leadership if only it happened enough. By enough I mean if great
leaders led millions everyday all over the world and solved all our problems. But that is not
going to happen. We need millions of Mahatmas but history has given us only one.
Therefore, even if all of us cannot own billions or rule the world what we can do for certain is
we can touch the life of one person at a time that is what is humanly possible and that is the
great equalizer whether you are the richest woman in the world or an ordinary man making a
living you have the same power to truly touch someone with kindness, compassion and care.

When I speak about kindness, compassion and care I know I may sound naive but the fact is
that I believe in what I am saying. What I am saying is that in this global village on a daily
basis we are not fighting world wars or military conquest every single day we are fighting the
consequences of simple human negligence, complacency, lack of compassion, inequality. What
we need is not a Leader to lead the Masses we need Leadership of the Self.

This is my message today. I do not know how to find the cure for diseases and I cannot tell
governments or multinationals to respect the environment but I can assure you with all
confidence that each of us can be better individuals better human beings. Whether we become
farmers, scientists, inventors or bureaucrats, the one thing we can all do alike is to live our lives
according to the values of kindness, integrity, justice we can be good human beings.How does
Leadership of the Self being better human beings translate to a better world?

Well, there are hundreds of us here today and thousands more under the University of
Calcutta. Some of us will become scientists, some corporate leaders, some national leaders and
teachers so on. The difference will be that as good human beings we will be scientists who make
the right inventions and cures; corporate leaders who do business with ethics; national leaders
who keep in mind the weakest sections of society and the welfare of future generations; teachers
who nurture and build good people. Imagine all the good we can do with the skills that our
education provides, the tools that science and technology offer and all the resources of the world.

See, throughout history, we have always had the resources, the technology and science to not
only solve but also actually prevent the problems that have plagued our world. What we lacked
at certain moments is the Conscience to direct these resources to their right and noble use. When
24,000 children die every day due to poverty, we spend $1.5 trillion dollars on arms and
ammunition. So now we can direct a missile at a target on another continent with the simple
press of a button, but we cannot yet bring safe drinking water to half of humanity. We always
had the resources. We lacked steadfast commitment, conscience and compassion.

I hope you see why I have kept speaking about the need to develop ourselves as individuals
before we seek change in the world. We live in a highly globalized and interdependent world, a
world where problems facing humanity like poverty, disease, war, strife do not recognize borders
of nation, ethnicity or religion. It affects all of us; it affects every part of the world.The solution
to global problems will not just materialize from politics, from great leaders or from science and
technology. The solution will come from us living as citizens of our communities, our societies,
our countries and above all as citizens of the world. As citizens of the world, our unifying force
our strength must also come from something that is not bound by nation, ethnicity or religion
from fundamental human values. Values shape the future of humanity.

Values are the root of our character if we do not tend the roots, the character that springs from
it no matter how much wealth, power and fame surrounds it will bring little benefit to oneself,
the lives of others and to the well being of the planet.
All these buildings, monuments, this life that we hold so dear all of these must give way and
perish not Values Values of kindness, integrity, justice. Even death shall not extinguish them.
Nothing travels endlessly with time and stays relevant from generation to generation, era upon
era except fundamental human values.

I hope we will realize that we are at the cusp of a fundamental change of thought a social
revolution that will change the way humanity will pursue growth forever. Our generation is
called upon to rethink, to redefine the true purpose of growth. And in doing so, to find a growth
that is truly sustainable.

We must never forget that for lasting peace and happiness in this world, the journey forward has
to be one that we must all make together. No one should be left behind.

This we must achieve without waiting for some great leader or genius who may or may not ever
emerge we should instead seek to do so, each of us, on our own. As we become better human
beings, we build better families, stronger communities, successful nations and a peaceful stable
world for ourselves and our future generations. It all starts with Leadership of the Self.

Now, as you go into life beyond university you might say everything that Jigme has said, I
have thought about them before and I want to be a good human being a kind person a
just person but sometimes its not enough to be good. How does one cope in this ever-changing
world, where the ups and downs are so unpredictable?
Yes, the world may not be an easy place and life can be hard sometimes. If it is of any worth to
you, let me share my approach to keeping myself on the right path. It is a simple way in which I
try to keep my goals, hopes and aspirations and above all my conscience always in the forefront.

I imagine my life is a book that I am engaged in writing. In so doing, I find that every moment
brings the urge and energy to do something special, something worthy to write into the book.
When I am confronted by some challenge, I find the opportunity to write a wonderful tale of
hardship, suffering, hard work, determination and commitment. When faced by the temptation to
take short cuts and cheat, the book serves as my conscience. In the end, after all, like anyone else
I want the story of my life to be as good as possible. But this story is written by my own best
judge the one that cannot be cheated or deceived myself. As is said in the Gita Let a man
raise himself by himself; let him not lower himself; for he alone is the friend of himself; he alone
is the enemy of himself.

So my young friends of the University of Calcutta let us you and me today introduce a new
Individualism the individualism of values that seeks the progress of oneself as an individual
as a human being and thus, the progress of humanity.

Before I conclude, thank you for having me here and for taking the time to listen. I want you to
know that being here with you means a lot to me. It has been a real privilege. As you begin your
lives after university, I pray that all of you go will go on to live wonderful happy lives; that you
will find true love its important you know some of you may have already found your soul-
mate, some waiting in anticipation while some desperately looking for one well, Good Luck I
hope it leads to happy marriages and beautiful children who make you proud and bring you
comfort.

On a more serious note I pray that you will find wisdom, courage and determination to
overcome challenges and grasp opportunities; I hope that you will develop a strong moral
compass that will help you navigate towards leading honorable lives. I pray that at the end of it
all, you will all be able to look back at extraordinary lives free of regret, full of satisfaction,
happiness and fulfillment. And that I will learn, year after year, with great pride, of all the good
you have done as wonderful human beings and as my friends.

Thank you.

Tashi Delek!

2010 November 19: Royal address delivered at the 6th session of the first Parliament
Since assuming Kingship in December 2006, I have travelled outside Bhutan four times each
time it has been to India. Indo-Bhutan friendship is of paramount importance and something we
hold dear. We must always work to further strengthen and deepen it. In October this year, I
visited Kolkata and New Delhi. I found in my meetings with the President, Prime Minister,
Chairperson of the UPA, ministers, government officials and leader of the Opposition, a common
heartfelt appreciation for Bhutans achievements as a nation, and a steadfast commitment and
pledge to strengthen even further what they feel is a model partnership and bond between
countries.

We are presently undertaking the mid-term review of the 10th 5-year Plan. Indias assistance has
been wholehearted and generous to the first development plan under our new democracy. On
behalf of the people of Bhutan, I convey my deep appreciation to the Government and People of
India.

Upon my return from India, I went directly to Bumthang to the site of the tragic fire in Chamkhar
town. Already deeply saddened since hearing the news, it was even more painful to see that the
fire had completely destroyed homes and belongings of over 79 families. Yet, in my absence, my
father His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo accompanied by the minister for Works and Human
Settlement, officials and members of Parliament visited the people from the very day of the fire,
delivering semso and bringing much needed hope and reassurance to the people. On behalf of the
people, I offer gratitude to my father, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.

During my own stay in Bumthang I worked closely with the Prime Minister, Home Minister,
Leader of the Opposition, members of Parliament, government officials to plan Kidu* activities,
the reconstruction of homes and setting up of a temporary township to help the people rebuild
their lives. Upon returning to Thimphu to attend the winter session of parliament, I asked the
Agriculture minister, members of Parliament of Bumthang, the dzongkhag administration and
the armed forces to continue the reconstruction work. I thank all of these people and institutions
as well as the Zhung Dratshang, goende, lams, students of Chumey Institute of Civil
Engineering, Motion Picture Association of Bhutan, NGOs and individuals for their time and
effort. I have found that this spirit of volunteerism and concern for each others welfare is an age
old quality common among the people of our 20 dzongkhags. As King, this gives me even
greater optimism and confidence about the future of our nation.

Now, as natural disasters become more frequent, and we continue to deliver Kidu so effectively
and comprehensively to the people not just today in Bumthang but in the past in Wamrong and
in certain dzongkhags following the earthquake there may be some people who will be
concerned.

They might be concerned that due to the strength of the welfare and social support system, our
people may become spoiled. I do not understand how people could be spoiled while seeking
refuge in Kiduduring times of immense suffering. To make people happy, to help them during
times of distress, and to ensure that they do not suffer greatly these are qualities of a country
where there is genuine concern for the people on the part of the King and government; and where
people share everything, happiness and sorrow. What should concern us is if there are people
being bullied, mistreated and made victims of injustice. We should be concerned if instead of
good deeds, the examples leaders set are of corruption and abuse of power if our nation is
without values and ethics.

Some people may say everyone has hardships in life. Why should some be given Kidu?

To this I say, that life is filled with its share of hardships. Whether we are rich or poor, no one
can escape lifes challenges. However, there is a great difference between facing lifes
challenges and completely losing hope. As we journey through life, we overcome hardships in
the knowledge that one day we may fulfill our hopes and aspirations. We know these hardships
cannot be removed from our lives so we seek to rise above them. However, for some people,
there may come moments when in spite of all their efforts, their problems become
insurmountable when they reach the end of the road and see no options ahead. At such times, if
we do not step in to help them find their way forward, they will despair and lose hope. This is
something we must never tolerate in Bhutan. As King it is my duty to ensure that our people will
always have hope.

Lastly, others may be concerned by the sustainability of such a strong system of Kidu - of
providing comprehensive welfare to those who need it as the population rises. Let me tell you
what I said to our people in Chamkhar. I told them that there was nothing we could do about the
fact that the fire had destroyed their homes and livelihoods. That we must accept the hardships,
emotional turmoil and sadness for months to come. Yet, I pledged that even though our nation
may be a small, landlocked country without the great wealth of others, in their moment of great
suffering, the King and government would do everything to find the resources needed to alleviate
their pain and restore happiness to their lives.

I have always said that Bhutanese are a unique people. When a neighbour, friend or even
stranger is in need we share their suffering and take it as our duty to help them. We must
preserve these age-old values and our unity and harmony as a people. Thus, it is the duty of the
King and those in positions of responsibility to set the right examples of compassion and care. In
other nations, with changing times, these precious qualities and values have been eroded and
replaced by a self-centered outlook to life with little concern for those less fortunate. We must
not allow this to happen in Bhutan.

In conclusion, I want to remind you, the members of Parliament, that our People and I have
placed our complete faith in you. As King, I have seen that you have served the nation with
dedication and commitment from the very first session of Parliament till today. During this
session you will be deliberating many important bills and acts. In doing so, I must remind you
that in focusing on the words and details of the laws and the needs of the present, do not be
blinded to the future of our country and people and the long-term objectives and priorities of
our nation. Let us all, in doing our duties, keep the interest of our people and our future
generations above all else.

~
Source
*Note by Page Admin: the closest English translation of the word Kiduis well-being or welfare.
2009 December 23: His Majesty the Kings Madhavrao Scindia Memorial Lecture

His Majesty the King, on his first State Visit to India, delivered a talk titled Changing World
and Timeless Values in a packed Madhavrao Scindia Memorial Lecture hall in New Delhi.
Changing World and Timeless Values
During my year at the National Defence College in Delhi, I came to value my visits to this
auditorium as a place, at which one would hear words of wisdom delivered, often very
memorably.
I always thought of myself as the humble listener. Even though I am here today as a Head of
State, this auditorium fills me with the same reluctance to speak I wish I was here to listen.
I know that there are others present and others who have preceded me on this platform with far
greater experience in leadership and with much greater achievements behind them. And then
there are those of you who are poised on the brink of remarkable careers in the service of a great
nation and people. I feel humbled in your presence.
But I accept this responsibility because I represent a small nation the Kingdom of Bhutan and
her citizens who, I believe, possess a unique experience from which they may offer through me
something of value to the people of the world.
So when Shri Jyotiraditya called with the invitation to be here I said Yes immediately as
friends and out of great respect for the late Shri Madhavrao Scindia. This is indeed a wonderful
forum in which to represent Bhutan. Thank you all for this opportunity.
The title for my talk today is Changing World and Timeless Values the reason for such a title
is that I had always wanted to think more deeply about how one might find an enduring place for
simple human values in a world that is becoming unrecognizable from one generation to the
next. And how, sadly, while the need for values is stronger and more urgent than ever, the
climate in which they would flourish grows more and more unfriendly.
Alas, I am neither an academic, spiritual leader nor philosopher and I can only bring to this
important topic my own personal thoughts.
Many years ago, I told a group of students at a convocation ceremony in Canada that The power
of the individual has never been greater than at this time in history and yet, the helplessness of
the less fortunate may never have been as distressing either in an age of plenty. Modernization
and political change have raised the individuals freedom, but it has also led to a less desirable
and unconscious freeing of the individual from his obligations to society and the greater good.
An inherent sense of values has gone missing. I told them, I felt that while young people
leaving university must be armed with degrees, it is more important that they be endowed with a
strong sense of values that bring meaning and purpose in their lives as well as stable, bright
futures ahead for society and the world.
This is the theme of my conversation with you today.
I truly believe that the only way to observe the most important things in life and in this world is
by putting them through the lens of Simplicity. You must break everything down to its
fundamentals, break it down to basic human instances. For in the end, no matter what country we
may be from, we are human beings no matter what our cultures and beliefs may be, we share
the same needs and abide by the same fundamental values.
In fact, it may be these very values that could guide us, through the great problems, even those of
environmental degradation, terrorism and world poverty. Perhaps the first of these values is the
sense of a shared planet. This is a world that is shared not between governments and nations
but among us, the people. It may sound idealistic but this is a natural and practical way of
approaching things that seem intractable and inflexible no matter how big the problem. The
image of a shared planet must always be present in our minds and especially in the minds of
those who are in positions of leadership.
I dont claim to be an expert on global issues but it can only help in the search for a solution if
we remember that this planet must be passed on to our future generations and to other living
beings. Isnt it natural that every individual will seek to enhance his inheritance and pass it on to
his own children? Shouldnt it be even more natural, then to assume that our generation every
generation that inherits this earth must pass it on stronger and more secure to the next? Without
this simple guiding value, that our world is shared among us and our future generations, we will
continue robbing our planet and our children.
Is it wrong to assume that a huge step to finding solutions to global problems, and averting future
crises, will be taken if we can think in the spirit of community and fraternity, not as individual
entities? When we accept that this is a world of people all alike, of families all alike, of
communities all alike of countries facing the same challenges of human beings ultimately
seeking the same thing then we will truly be in a position to foster well being, security and
happiness.
In this interconnected world no nation stands alone. How could it? Disease, poverty, strife
these afflictions do not understand national boundaries the internet age and the free and fast
flow of information shows us daily, the incongruity, injustice and inhumanity of a world of vast
inequality.
Individual or even national success is a ship that cannot carry everyone together to the same
place at the same time. Rich nations must stop to be mindful of the poorer ones left behind.
Successful people must stop to remember those who didnt make it. No nation today can stand
alone in achievement. Time is slowly telling us that there can be no lasting individual success
without success as a community and there cannot be lasting national progress and success if it
does not fit into a future of global peace, harmony and equality. The world must progress
together or fail together.
I believe that any real and lasting solution to global issues can only come through a universal
wave of human empathy, desire and passion for the common good. Global problems are
problems that face mankind and our planet. Governments might mediate problems at the global
level, but its effects are felt by people, like you and me. While we know it is an accepted process
that governments and large institutions debate the issues, negotiate and bargain on the
concessions to be made we tend to forget that in protecting our own constituencies, we
jeopardize the world and thus ourselves and our own future generations. Global problems cannot
be solved by protecting local self-interest.
As I said before, I risk sounding idealistic but the fact is that I believe it is only when we are
willing to bear the embarrassment of being a little innocent that we will be able to say Let us
place the interest of humanity, not national populations and constituencies, above all else. Let us
take political risks and strong decisions in addressing the needs of humanity. The answer to
global problems will come closer at hand when we grasp that universal simplicity that sense of
a shared planet and a shared fate for those who walk on it. We need shared human endeavour not
just negotiated change.
I have been inspired in the way I look at things by Bhutans development philosophy of Gross
National Happiness (GNH) and its pioneer, my father His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
Today, GNH has come to mean so many things to so many people but to me it signifies simply
Development with Values.
We strive for the benefits of economic growth and modernization while ensuring that in our
drive to acquire greater status and wealth we do not forget to nurture that which makes us happy
to be Bhutanese. Is it our strong family structure? Our culture and traditions? Our pristine
environment? Our respect for community and country? Our desire for a peaceful coexistence
with other nations? If so, then the duty of our government must be to ensure that these invaluable
elements contributing to the happiness and wellbeing of our people are nurtured and protected.
Our government must be human.
Thus, for my nation, today GNH is the bridge between the fundamental values of Kindness,
Equality and Humanity and the necessary pursuit of economic growth. GNH acts as our National
Conscience guiding us towards making wise decisions for a better future. It ensures that no
matter what our nation may seek to achieve, the human dimension, the individuals place in the
nation, is never forgotten. It is a constant reminder that we must strive for a caring leadership so
that as the world and country changes, as our nations goals change, our foremost priority will
always remain the happiness and wellbeing of our people including the generations to come
after us.
Thus, that is why I say GNH is Development guided by human Values. The greatness of the
concept lies in the simplicity of its origin. For, it is born from nothing other than one person
King Jigme Singye Wangchucks passionate desire to serve a country and people from
virtuous human endeavour.
I am confident that the noble goal of Gross National Happiness will be key to Bhutans success
in maintaining our unity and harmony indeed our character as a nation.
Another factor that has always played a central role in our success without which we would
certainly not be where we are today is Indias friendship. Some say Bhutan was wise to seek
strong bilateral relations with India. Yes, after all whether we speak about our socio-economic
progress or our recent transition to democracy, India has been our steadfast partner and friend.
But I feel that the true wisdom lies in the fact that we sought and continue to seek true friendship
with India. I see the roots of our ties in the difficult yet most personal and intimate journey of
Pandit Nehru to Bhutan in 1958 on the invitation of my grandfather. And how, after all these
years and such a great widening of our cooperation our friendship remains as intimate and
strong as it was then between two very great men.
It is said that a mans most important relationships are formed in the early years of life. I have
always said that this saying holds so true for India and Bhutan. One country while still
radiating joy and warmth from the attainment of Independence ushered the other into the realm
of modernization.
Since then, our relations have grown strong, vibrant, and dynamic. From religious and cultural
links to political and economic cooperation today our ties encompass a great diversity of areas
and issues on which we work closely together in each others best interests. The strength of our
friendship is even more striking when viewed in the context of the profound changes that have
taken place in the world in the last few decades. With modernization our peoples have a greater
awareness of the world beyond our region. And though awakened to new realities and
experiences, our friendship has evolved, as only true friendship can, over time. Despite the vast
difference in size and population, our friendship has been constant because of the pillars of trust
and understanding on which we have founded it. Our relationship stands as a model of
partnership and cooperation.
If we view India Bhutan Friendship through the prism of simplicity the perspective of
fundamental human values, Indo-Bhutan friendship began as a bond between two men two
leaders and that our best future lies in an unaltering bond between our two peoples.
Finally, let me say something about the role Values play in my life as an individual and as
someone called upon to assume a position of leadership.
As a young person, I thought a great deal about the future awaiting me. I thought about the
question of how good Kings and great leaders come about what factors bring them into being.
We see that world history speaks of leaders with great foresight and vision leaders for troubled
times leaders for young nations and ancient empires. Leaders in different fields. All kinds of
leaders religious, economic, political.
After many years of observing my father, working with government, touring the country, living
in the villages and meeting the people , I learned that you dont just become a leader for a
prescribed and planned situation you have to offer leadership whatever the circumstances.
Now, having assumed the duties of Kingship of this small Himalayan nation in the midst of a
globalizing world that changes in an instant, it is even more clear that there is no way to foresee
the circumstances and plan for leadership in such a world.
So my guiding principle has been born and nurtured on the simple instinct that in order to do the
job I have been given as best as I can first and foremost, I must strive to be a good human
being. So while the wider vision is crucial to me it is more important for me as a King whose
aspirations are lodged within those of my country and people to be able to crystallize that
vision to fulfill the ultimate aspirations of the people in the form of simple daily acts carried
out from moment to moment.
I take each day as it comes. If someone in a village has something to tell me, I stop and listen. If
an old mans house must be rebuilt after a natural disaster, I try and stay there to see it through. It
may take an extra few minutes or months but it must be done. Not only is it the duty of a good
human being, but each moment, each action is to me, a building block that will one day take
shape in the wider vision. Besides, its all very well to have a vision that stretches to the top of the
peaks, but unless you re walking a little up the hill everyday, you will never get there.
That is why today, I do not have my eyes on the rewards or legacy that accrue to the work of
leadership. I prefer to focus on the immediate, most pressing needs of people not just in
Bhutan, people anywhere. Every day, as an individual, I aim at being a good son, brother, friend
a good human being. As a King, I always find myself humbled by the duty to serve a country
and people. So I strive to do so in a spirit of Kindness, Integrity and Equality. I always seek to
discern what is right what is good for the country and the people every moment of the day.
These Values mean everything to me and they will always define me, and my duty to the
country.
I cannot imagine living in a world where ones duty is only to oneself or to ones family or
country. We must build from these true and intimate relationships outwards and upwards to the
nobler duty to the greater world and to peace, prosperity and happiness that is global.
In conclusion, after this long speech, all I have said is that there is only one starting point to
resolve any problem big or small that is ones self. Each one of us must embark upon our
personal journey towards the timeless goal of living a good life being a good human being
even as we tackle the worlds largest problems.
Thank you for being here to listen to me today.

2009 July 30: Royal Address at the Concluding Ceremony of the 3rd Session of Parliament
On the occasion of the concluding ceremony of the 3rd session of Parliament, I congratulate the
elected government of the Druk Phuensum Tshokpa on the completion of one year and four
months in office. In these early days of a new political system while bearing great
responsibilities you have, despite the limited resources, successfully carried out the difficult
duties of government in service of the Tsawasum.
The Opposition, though comprised of only two members, has through diligence and
commitment, fulfilled the important duties of the Opposition party enshrined in the Constitution.
The members of the National Council, in the interest of the countrys future, have shouldered
their profound duties with accomplishment. I must express my deep gratitude and appreciation to
the government and the members of parliament. It is with complete trust and faith that I look
upon you to serve the People and Country. In doing so you have my wholehearted support.
We must also acknowledge that in preparation for democracy we had entrusted immense
responsibilities on our civil servants and judiciary as well as on constitutional bodies such as the
Royal Audit Authority, Anti-corruption Commission and Election Commission, which they have
fulfilled in the service of the nation. Henceforth, for a vibrant and successful democracy, we
must continue to support and strengthen these institutions.
Media newspapers, television, radio and the Internet must play a very important role. I
appreciate that while some of the media agencies are young and lack adequate resources they
have strived to perform their duties with complete commitment. Hereafter, media will be vital in
keeping people well informed and in encouraging debate and participation key to a vibrant
democracy. Therefore, I have decided that through the exercise of my Royal Prerogative of Kidu,
to strengthen media agencies so that they may carry out their duties, without fear or favour, in
the interest of democracy.
Today, whenever there is time, I travel across the country to the villages. It is when I sit in the
houses of my people, eat our meals together and discuss the lives and aspirations of each family,
that I am most content. And while I am there I try, in small ways, to help them with their most
pressing problems. Nothing is as rewarding as knowing that I have made their lives a little more
comfortable, a little more secure and happier.
There is no substitute for being able to see the problems of the people personally. For when I
carry out my duties, I shall remember the faces of the people whom I must serve and I will know
the ways in which I can serve them best.
It is also while I am in the villages that I come across so many people serving the country in such
important ways, but who are rarely recognized and acknowledged. There is the civil servant,
teacher, health worker and local government staff working in remote places and serving their
country well. Our development projects are supported by the hard work of the daily-wage worker
and those in the national work force. There is the small entrepreneur or the farmer working hard
to feed his or her family. Such people are the backbone of our nation.
I have said before that the future is what we make of it. What work we do with our two hands
today, and the sacrifices we make will shape the future of our nation. To each and every loyal,
hardworking and law-abiding citizen I offer my deepest gratitude.
Now, I always say that when we work together we must be frank and forthright. Today,
everywhere people are concerned about the disagreements between important institutions of
government. I want to tell my people that when such disagreements arise, there is no need to
worry. It means that the members of these institutions have embraced their duties
wholeheartedly. However, we must be careful not to defer problems but resolve them as soon as
they arise.
It is not the disagreements that our people should be concerned about; it is the manner in which
they are resolved. Frankly, these disagreements have given us a great opportunity to set the right
precedent for future politicians, governments and people. If the institutions in question can sit
together, keeping national interest above all else, and resolve their problems, it will be an
auspicious sign that democracy has a great future in Bhutan.
As King I have the sacred duty to look beyond the next one or two, or even five or ten years. It is
my duty to serve the People such that, for generation after generation, era upon era our nation
becomes stronger, more prosperous and happier. Therefore, from where I stand, I do not see
different players such as the National Assembly, National Council, Cabinet or Bureaucracy.
What do I see?
I see our small landlocked country. I see our small Bhutanese family. Then I see this immense
world in which we have the challenge and responsibility to stand on our own feet and build a
nation into which our future generations will always feel proud, secure and happy to be born.
This is what I see.
I truly believe that we have a special, unique and strong nation because of our People the jewel
of Bhutan. Throughout history our people have always worked as One Nation with One Vision.
So, today, it is my hope that you will uphold this unity of spirit and purpose and resolve all
disagreements in the interest of our People and Country, now and in the future.
Tashi Delek

2009 February 17: His Majesty the Kings Speech at the 3rd Convocation of the Royal
University of Bhutan
His Majesty the King graced the 3rd Convocation Ceremony of the Royal University of Bhutan,
in Paro. His Majesty awarded degree certificates to the 1000 graduates of the Paro and Samtse
Colleges of Education.
His Majesty the Kings Address to the Graduate Students:
It always makes me very happy to meet and spend time with you. And when we do get the
opportunity, we all want it to be a happy time. However, we must also understand the difference
between getting together as friends to talk and laugh and then getting together to work for our
people and country. At this moment, with so many senior officials gathered together, we must
say we are here for work.
I can say so many good things today about the success of our country, about the hard work of our
people. We have done our work well, our policies have been good everything we have done we
have done with the interests of our people and country in mind that is why we are here today as
a unique and successful nation. But my saying these things will not change anything. It serves no
purpose or bears no fruits. Praising what we have already done will not bring new rewards. It is
better to see what our weaknesses are, where we have not done very well, where we need to do
better.
My duty is to worry every single day about our people and country. And to voice these worries
frankly so that we do not get carried away, get caught unaware, or become complacent. So bear
with me as I speak to you about my concerns about our education system or standards. Those of
you who work in the ministry of education or related agencies must not feel singled out.
I am a firm believer that if there is one word that will stand out above all other words when we
describe our countrys amazing journey of modernization over the last few decades it is
Education. Our institutions, our leaders of today all of us, including me are the proud
products of the Bhutanese education system.
Our education system built and nurtured with your hard work and dedication has served us well.
But we must understand that the times have changed here in Bhutan and all around us in the
world. We cannot face new challenges with the same tools. The private sector is adjusting itself
to new challenges and opportunities; the bureaucracy is finding its place in a new system of
governance; the entire country is adapting to new roles in our young democracy. Thus, every
person and institution must evolve to meet the aspirations of our people and the changing needs
of our nation.
Today I speak on behalf of our teachers and students our teachers will always be committed
and dedicated teachers our students will always be diligent and loyal students but it is the
duty of parents, policy makers and the government to put the right tools in their hands the right
books, the right curriculum, the right direction. For this we must first ask ourselves where do
we want to go as an economy, as a democracy, as a nation. In other words, what is the Vision for
Bhutan? Then we must build an education system that nurtures people with the right skills,
knowledge and training to fulfill this Vision. The sooner we realize this the better.
The word Vision is such a profound word and yet one that is so commonly mis-used. I feel that
there is no better reason to use this word than to describe the importance of education. For if our
Vision for the nation is not contained in the pages of the books that our young children hold, in
the words of our teachers as they lead their classrooms, and in the education policies of our
governments, then let it be said we have no Vision.
We can dream of a strong bureaucracy of the highest standards but we must not forget that those
standards must be set in school where our future bureaucrats are.
We can dream of world class IT parks, of being an international financial centre, of competing at
international standards but we must not forget that we can have none of these if our schools and
colleges do not bestow such talents and skills.
We can dream of a nation of environmental conservation, GNH, a strong economy, a vibrant
democracy and yet none are possible or sustainable if we have not already toiled and sweated in
the building of a strong education system.
Our nations future lies in an ever-shrinking world. Our governments goals, and the 10th plan
reflect this reality. If we take even a cursory glance at the immediate goals of our nation, we will
see goals such as developing hydropower, mines, health, tourism, banking, Information
Technology; roads, domestic and international airports; and so on. You hear terms like
knowledge based, niche, broadband, innovation, data centre, sustainable and so on.
These goals and terms are perfectly normal and as I said, reflect the reality of the changing times.
But if changing realities bring new ambitions and goals, it must also bring new plans and
preparation. Most importantly, we have to ask ourselves how do we build and nurture the people
who will implement the plans and fulfill our goals? The answer lies in Education. But statistics
show that while we pile dream upon dream like floors on a skyscraper, the foundation needs to
be strengthened.
Let me make an extremely broad and elementary observation. In all the countries where progress
has been strong in the areas we strive to develop, the strength of the education system has been
in Math and Science. In fact in India, the favourite subject for most students is Mathematics. In
Bhutan, Mathematics is one of our main weaknesses most students do not like Math and the
majority scores less than 50%. We have similar weaknesses in Science and amazingly, even
English.
I have studied our own official statistics, which show these in great detail you should look at
them too- but for today, what we need to do is ask ourselves the question does our education
system reflect our changing opportunities and challenges? Contemplate this question.
Contemplate! For what a grave mistake it will be to stand proud as nation on the hard work of
our forefathers, the successes of our past and on the admiration and respect of the outside world
today. And fail to see that it will all disappear tomorrow, if we lose sight of the fundamental
reasons for our success.
Contemplate! For what a grave mistake it will be to dream with great optimism of taking our
nation from this successful democratic transition into a future of even greater success, without
realizing that it is not us but our children who must secure that success for the nation.
I have said it time and time again, a nations future will mirror the quality of her youth a
nation cannot fool herself into thinking of a bright future when she has not invested wisely in her
children.
We always repeat what HM the fourth King once said, the future of our nation lies in the hands
of our children. We must know that His Majesty, my father, meant that quality of education for
our young Bhutanese is of paramount importance. And that it is our duty as todays parents,
leaders and citizens to provide it. We must ensure that their young little hands grow to become
strong and worthy of carrying our nation to greater heights.
I cannot go into details of the education sector there are experts among us who can do this. All
I know is, as simple as it sounds, that our hopes and aspirations as a nation must be reflected in
what is taught to our future generations in the classroom. This is my view. I urge parents,
policymakers and the general public to reflect on this. Keep in mind:
That our culture, traditions and heritage are the foundation of our Nation and our People are our
greatest asset.
That we have a small population but our people love the country with the right tools we can
achieve anything.
That educating our People is the first step to fulfilling our aspirations as a nation.
That it is not enough to provide free education we must provide education of such quality that
it will guarantee a distinguished place for our youth anywhere in the world.
And that our window of opportunity is small today the largest section of our population are
Youth how we address quality of education now will determine whether we will build strong
young citizens who will ensure a long bright future for the nation or fail and confine such a
large number of our young children and their children to generations of hardship and struggle.
When the sun sets every evening, we go to sleep in the comfort that it will rise in the morning
and things will be the same. Do not however let the light of education ever go out. For if it
should become dark, even for a moment, we will find that generations of our children will suffer
its effects and the light on a bright future for our nation will take decades to shine again.
Parents and teachers, I want you to know that as King my passion will always be to nurture our
youth, day after day, year after year for it is their skills, their labour and commitment to the
country that will build our future. There is no other path no other tool for Bhutans future
success. I end with the words Our nations Vision can only be fulfilled if the scope of our
dreams and aspirations are matched by the reality of our commitment to nurturing our future
citizens.

2008 November 07: Coronation Address to the Nation
It is with immense joy that we are gathered together on this most auspicious day. In these last
100 years the dreams and aspirations of our forefathers and the vision of our Kings have been
fulfilled beyond all expectations.
The wise and selfless leadership of our kings, the sacrifice and hard work of generations of
Bhutanese and the special bond between the People and King have given us this unique and
special nation a jewel of the earth.
Two years ago, at a time of profound change I came onto the Throne as a young King. You, my
people, in the spirit of generations past, worked with me with complete faith and gave me your
wholehearted cooperation and goodwill. Thus, in these two short years while we have taken
gigantic steps towards strengthening our nation, we have done so in a calm, deliberate manner in
complete harmony.
It is with great pride that we stand as a new democracy, having successfully completed an
unprecedented and historic transition. Yet we must always remember that as our country, in these
changing times finds immense new challenges and opportunities, whatever work we do,
whatever goals we have and no matter how these may change in this changing world
ultimately without peace, security and happiness we have nothing.
That is the essence of the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Our most important goal is
the peace and happiness of our people and the security and sovereignty of the nation. Our
generation of Bhutanese have been gifted a strong, dynamic nation by our forefathers. I am
confident that as long as we are willing to work with their commitment and dedication and
follow their example we can bring greater peace, happiness and prosperity to our country.
I am confident because I know the worth and character of our people. You are the true jewel of
this nation. As citizens of a spiritual land you treasure the qualities of a good human being
honesty, kindness, charity, integrity, unity, respect for our culture and traditions, love for our
country and for the Dharma. Throughout our history our parents have upheld these values and
placed the common good above the self.
My deepest concern is that as the world changes we may lose these fundamental values on which
rest our character as a nation and people. It is critical that we are able to recognize Bhutanese
character irrespective of how far we look back into the past or into the future. The Bhutan we see
is vastly different unrecognizable even when compared to the Bhutan in the time of our first
King.
Yet, the character of our people and the nature of our fundamental values have remained
unchanged. Henceforth, as even more dramatic changes transform the world and our nation, as
long as we continue to pursue the simple and timeless goal of being good human beings, and as
long as we strive to build a nation that stands for everything that is good, we can ensure that our
future generations for hundreds of years will live in happiness and peace.
It is not because I am King that I ask these of you. Destiny has put me here. It is with immense
gratitude and humility that at this young age, I assume the sacred duty to serve a special people
and country.
Throughout my reign I will never rule you as a King. I will protect you as a parent, care for you
as a brother and serve you as a son. I shall give you everything and keep nothing; I shall live
such a life as a good human being that you may find it worthy to serve as an example for your
children; I have no personal goals other than to fulfill your hopes and aspirations. I shall always
serve you, day and night, in the spirit of kindness, justice and equality. As the king of a Buddhist
nation, my duty is not only to ensure your happiness today but to create the fertile ground from
which you may gain the fruits of spiritual pursuit and attain good Karma.
This is how I shall serve you as King.
I cannot end without addressing our most important citizens our youth. The future of our nation
depends on the worth, capabilities and motivation of todays youth. Therefore, I will not rest
until I have given you the inspiration, knowledge and skills so that you will not only fulfill your
own aspirations but be of immense worth to the nation. This is my sacred duty. A strong
motivated young Bhutan guarantees a strong bright future.

References
http://no.dou.bt/
http://www.bhutan-research.org/category/the-kings-speeches