As we celebrate the 117th National Day today, this occasion is a moment for deep reflection—an opportunity for all the proud denizens of the Pelden Drukpa to look back at the extraordinary journey we have traversed under the enlightened leadership of the Wangchuck Dynasty.

From a small, poor, landlocked kingdom, Bhutan has transformed into a modern, peaceful, and prosperous nation. In fact, we have leapfrogged from the medieval to the modern. 

In celebrating this transformative journey of our nation, we must also honour the sacrifices made by our forefathers, the wisdom and farsighted leadership of our Kings, and the unity and solidarity of our people that have shaped our nation’s incredible destiny.

The visionary leadership of the Wangchuck Dynasty, from the first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck to our beloved present King, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, has been crucial in ensuring Bhutan’s sovereignty and security. Even as the world around us went through complex times rife with turmoils and political upheavals, our monarchs provided the stability and guidance necessary for the country to not only survive but also thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.

The role of the Wangchuck Dynasty in securing Bhutan’s sovereignty cannot be overstated. Despite being squeezed between two global powers, Bhutan has maintained its independence against all odds. Through careful diplomacy, Bhutan has navigated the complexities of regional and global politics, ensuring that our sovereignty remains intact.

And in a world where smaller nations are often caught in the crossfire of geopolitical struggles, Bhutan has successfully managed to preserve its unique identity and sovereignty.

While it is essential to acknowledge the progress Bhutan has made, the National Day is also a time to reflect on our roots and the path that forged our nationhood. Our identity has been shaped by our history, geography, and culture, but most importantly, it has been forged by our unwavering commitment to our sovereignty.

As we reflect on the journey thus far, we must also look forward. What kind of Bhutan do we envision in the next 100, 200, or even 1,000 years, and beyond? The power to shape that future lies in the hands of the present generation. Guided by the vision of our King, our collective responsibility is to ensure that our nation is much stronger, stable, peaceful, and prosperous in the future. 

And the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) is one of the most ambitious national projects that will define our shared future. Envisioned by His Majesty the King, the GMC is the future we are looking at, the future that we must all work towards with single-minded focus and unwavering determination.

This National Day, let us draw inspiration from our past and unite as a nation to achieve the ambitious goals that lie ahead. Together, we can ensure that our nation continues to thrive for generations to come.