In a special ceremony befitting the profound significance of the occasion, His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck received the Royal Charter for the Establishment of Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region from the sacred Machen Lhakhang in Punakha Dzong on February 10.

His Royal Highness The Gyalsey offered Marchhang – libation offerings made to all deities and dharma protectors of the land – to invoke their blessings and protection for the successful launch and realization of His Majesty The King’s vision for the future of Bhutan. The Marchhang offerings were made before the Zhabdrung Khamsum Zilnon.

His Royal Highness The Gyalsey received the Royal Charter placed at the sacred Machen Lhakhang of Punakha Dzong. This is in keeping with the tradition of receiving blessings from the Machen Lhakhang for matters of the greatest national importance.

In recognition that the Gelephu Mindfulness City is established for the future of Bhutan, about 400 children from the region were invited to participate in the ceremony.

Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen graced the ceremony, which was attended by the Prime Minister, ministers, and senior government officials, and presided over by the His Eminence the Dorji Lopen.

The Royal Charter, granted on the 1st day of the 1st month of the Male Wood Dragon Year, is a significant milestone in the establishment of the Special Administrative Region which will be known as Gelephu Mindfulness City, as announced by His Majesty The King on the 116th National Day.

His Majesty The King was received by the Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al Sabah on February 11. His Majesty is on a Royal Visit to Kuwait. His Majesty also met with the Prime Minister of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Dr Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al Sabah. The former Prime Minister of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah hosted a lunch in honour of His Majesty later in the day. Bhutan and Kuwait share exceptionally warm and friendly relations, and marked the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023.