To honour His Majesty’s leadership in advancing human development and the wellbeing and happiness of the people of Bhutan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) yesterday presented a Special Award of Recognition to His Majesty The King.

A press release from the foreign ministry states, the UNDP announced that the award takes into account three major human development achievements: His Majesty’s championing of the holistic development paradigm of Gross National Happiness, His Majesty’s leadership in environment conservation and climate action which has resulted in Bhutan being the only carbon negative country in the world, and His Majesty’s guidance, which ensured a smooth transition of the system of governance and strong democratic foundations to be established in Bhutan.

“This has been evident from the significant and tangible development results reflected in the National Human Development Report of 10 years of Democracy,” the press release states.

The UNDP Administrator and United Nations Under-Secretary General, Achim Steiner, presented the award to His Majesty The King.

“Bhutan’s progress and stability are a testament to the vision and guidance of His Majesty The King and the Royal Government,” Achim Steiner said. “The country’s success illustrates that ambitious sustainable development policies coupled with commitment and enlightened leadership, can transform the lives of the people.”