October 25: Bhutan observed the 63rd UN day yesterday. The Prime Minister Lyonchen Jigmi Y Thinley and the UN Resident Representative to Bhutan, Nicholas Rosellini led the butter lamp ceremony to mark the day.

The venerable Yangpai lopen and the monks of the Zhung Dratsang recited prayers for peace and prosperity in the world.

In his address, the Prime Minister Lyonchen Jigmi Y Thinley said on this day, we celebrate the achievements of UN and its agencies.

With millions of people least equipped to face the burden of rising food and fuel crises, Prime Minister said it is also a day for the UN to renew their commitments.

Bhutan, he said is fully committed to the values and aspirations of the United Nations.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the UN. “To you and through you I would like to express special Tashi Delek on behalf of the people of Bhutan and the royal government to the staff of the UN, past and present who have contributed in making Bhutan a better place and who continue to set the highest dedication and service,” he said.

The UN Resident Representative to Bhutan Nicholas Rosellini said the 63rd UN day celebration in Bhutan is significant as it coincides with the centenary and the coronation celebrations of His Majesty the King.

Nicholas Rosellini said Bhutan is a success story in development and a model of balanced economic, social and environment sustainability.

“This success is recognized by the fact that by international measures, Bhutan has now reached the status of a middle income country. We must together ensure that this is maintained and taken to greater heights in the future. The UN will do its best to support the Royal Government of Bhutan to build on these fine achievements made by the people of Bhutan under the far sighted vision and leadership of its Monarchs,” said the UN Resident Representative.

He said Bhutan has made good progress and has achieved most of the Millennium Development Goals.

Nicholas Rosellini however said Bhutan still needs attention in reducing poverty and maternal mortality rates, increasing employment and number of girls in tertiary education.

Mr Rosellini also praised Bhutan’s unique approach to democracy and emphasized on the need for check and balance for vibrant democracy.

The cabinet Ministers, the Opposition leader Tshering Togay, members of the parliament, heads and staff of various UN agencies and senior government officials also took part in the ceremony.