His Majesty's National Day Address
Today, as we celebrate the 116th National Day, I would like to share some thoughts on our nation's journey and future path.
The purpose of establishing this Special Administrative Region is to create a vibrant economic hub by providing a conducive business environment and compelling incentives. It will be a Mindfulness City, encompassing conscious and sustainable businesses, inspired by Buddhist spiritual heritage, and distinguished by the uniqueness of the Bhutanese identity.
Gelephu Mindfulness City will be a place where innovation meets tradition, where economic growth is balanced with environmental stewardship, and where the well-being of all citizens is paramount.
We envision a city that serves as a model for sustainable urban development, drawing on Bhutan's Gross National Happiness philosophy while embracing the opportunities of the modern world.
The development of Gelephu will create new opportunities for our youth, providing them with the skills, knowledge, and environment to thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
This initiative represents not just an economic opportunity, but a chance to showcase Bhutan's unique approach to development—one that values happiness, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability alongside material progress.
As we embark on this ambitious journey, I call upon all Bhutanese to contribute their ideas, energy, and commitment. The success of Gelephu Mindfulness City will depend on our collective effort and shared vision.
Let us approach this task with the same wisdom, compassion, and determination that have guided our nation through centuries of challenges and change.
Together, we will build not just a new city, but a new chapter in Bhutan's proud history—one that honors our past while boldly embracing the future.
May the blessings of the Triple Gem guide us as we work toward this vision, and may Gelephu Mindfulness City stand as a testament to the enduring spirit and wisdom of the Bhutanese people.
Tashi Delek!
"The purpose of establishing this SAR is to create a vibrant economic hub by providing a conducive business environment and compelling incentives. It will be a Mindfulness City, encompassing conscious and sustainable businesses, inspired by Buddhist spiritual heritage, and distinguished by the uniqueness of the Bhutanese identity."
Mindfulness City: A Vision for Bhutan's Future
In the 116th National Day address to an audience of 30,000, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck presented his vision for a new economic hub in Bhutan, the world's first carbon-negative country. Located in the town of Gelephu in Southern Bhutan, the 2500+ km² masterplan titled 'Mindfulness City' by BIG, Arup, and Cistri is informed by Bhutanese culture, the principles of Gross National Happiness index (GNH), and the country's strong spiritual heritage.
The future Gelephu Special Administration Region, located on the India-Bhutan border, will leverage its location and connectivity to South and Southeast Asia to lay the foundation for the country's future growth and create economic opportunities for its citizens through investments in green technology, education, and infrastructure.