People at the Centre of Development
It is with deepest respect and greatest admiration that I write this message to pay my highest tribute to His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Under the visionary and dynamic leadership of His Majesty the King, the Kingdom of Bhutan has clearly made tremendous achievements in the political, economic and social spheres. He has been faced with a multitude of challenges – from those dealing with security and other issues in the south to providing basic social services for the population – many of which were of a formidable nature and of great magnitude. During the 34 year of his reign, His Majesty has always led and shown his people the most appropriate path toward moving forward. Bhutan has clearly succeeded in overcoming many woes, and has rapidly made progress in nation-building, reaching many milestones and immense accomplishments.
I have always been most impressed by His Majesty’s genuine care for his people and by Bhutan’s development path, which places people at its very centre in the truest sense, improving their socio-economic well-being and enhancing their happiness, including spiritual happiness. This combination of economic and social development, with human development and emotional enhancement at its core, is what many countries are striving to achieve all over the world.
Some of my fondest memories of Bhutan come from many treks to the remote parts of the country. The walks and discovery of Bhutan were exhilarating and truly enjoyable. I especially valued the encounters with the people who live in these places, and they gave me lasting inspiration and strength as I learned their wisdom and outlook on life.
I was most touched on numerous occasions by the warmth and graciousness of His Majesty the King and Their Majesties the Queens. The caring words and the kindest gestures of Their Majesties were truly moving, and I am grateful beyond words for their thoughtfulness, benevolence and generosity.
May I wish His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, His Majesty King Jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuck and members of the Royal Family all the prosperity and happiness for the future.
Akiko Yuge
Former UN Resident Co-ordinator
And UNDP Resident Representative in Bhutan
2007