October 23: His Majesty the King graced the closing of the National Graduates Orientation Programme at the Jigme Singye Wangchuck Youth Development Center yesterday.

Their Royal Highnesses the Princesses and His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck also attended the closing ceremony.

Addressing the one thousand two hundred graduates, His Majesty said our fundamental aims and national objectives are the peace, prosperity and unity of the country and the happiness and welfare of the people.

His Majesty said that the love and harmony between our people is the ultimate measure of our success as a country.

His Majesty said that the security and sovereignty of Bhutan is a national goal that all of us must keep in our mind.

On security, His Majesty stressed the importance of security that comes when the people are united in their love for the country and united in their efforts to further secure, consolidate, and hand over an even stronger nation to their children rather than physical defense.

On parliamentary democracy, His Majesty reminded the graduates that it is every citizen’s responsibility to build a vibrant democracy. His Majesty said, as King, his biggest and most sacred responsibility is to strengthen parliamentary democracy in Bhutan.

Another essential national goal and objective, His Majesty said, is the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. His Majesty said that the essence of GNH will never change but how we achieve GNH will in this fast paced globalizing world that presents us with new opportunities and challenges.

His Majesty said GNH is the bridge between the fundamental values of kindness, equality and humanity and the necessary pursuit of economic growth.

Some of the centenary graduates told BBS they are truly honored and privileged to have His Majesty gracing the closing ceremony.

They were deeply inspired and motivated by His Majesty‘s Address.

The closing ceremony was attended by Their Royal Highnesses the Princesses Ashi Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck, Ashi Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck and His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck.