December 24: The second session of the parliament began amidst traditional ceremony today. His Majesty the King graced the opening ceremony. His Majesty the King was escorted by cabinet ministers, members of the parliament and senior government officials to the Gyalyong Tshokhang.

Addressing the opening, His Majesty said it gives him great pleasure to see the manner in which the new politicians and all players in our new political system are carrying their important responsibilities. In spite of the challenge of instituting a vibrant new democracy, our country is filled with a sense of quiet assurance and comfort that would usually come from decades of experience and success. This confident start is a source of immense optimism, His Majesty said.

His Majesty said it is also a reminder that in order for Democracy to fulfill the objective of further strengthening the nation, we must realize first that there is much work to be done. His Majesty added that we must carry out this work with dedication and in the right spirit.

His Majesty said where parliament is concerned, regardless of the issues, big or small and regardless of the geogs, dzongkhags or constituencies the members represent, each issue must be deliberated with the sacred and overarching goal of safeguarding the interests of the people of all 20 dzongkhags and the nation, now and for always. In the end we are one small family, His Majesty said.

The National Assembly Speaker Tshogpoen Jigme Tshultim said the Coronation of His Majesty the King and Centenary celebrations were a huge success. On development issues, he said reduction of unemployment and poverty alleviation will be given top priority in the 10th five year plan. The other important goals, he said, are the construction of roads in all the geog centres, supply of electricity to all villages and setting up of one stop centres.

The Prime Minister and the members of the parliament presented their motion of thanks after the royal address. They pledged to fulfill the wishes and the command of His Majesty the King. The Prime Minster said what ever success the new government has achieved thus far has been due to the guidance that has been bestowed by Their Majesties the Kings. Lyonchhen Jigmi Thinley said the government will always look for the same guidance and support in the future.

The parliament will discuss various issues including security clearance, the civil service pay revision, and placing of the Royal Bhutan Police under the home ministry.