November 25: The 4th International Conference on Gross National Happiness began in the capital yesterday. More than 90 participants from 25 countries are participating in the three day conference. The Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley graced the opening of the conference.
Addressing the participants at the opening, the Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley said the conference is taking place at a time when Bhutan is celebrating three significant events; the centenary celebration of the monarchy, the coronation of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the successful institution of parliamentary democracy in the country.
The conference, he said, is a special celebration of the timeless gift of GNH by His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo not only to the Bhutanese people but to the human society in general. He said the conference is one of the most important and meaningful activities of the centenary celebrations.
The Prime Minister said it’s encouraging to see the aspects of GNH being implemented in communities around the world.
During the three day conference, participants will present papers on themes related to GNH including psychology, environment, community relations, education, health, living standard, governance, culture, time use and economy, and their indicators.
The opening ceremony was also attended by the cabinet ministers, the opposition leader, members of the parliament, senior government officials and representatives from the international organizations.
The 5th International GNH Conference will be held in Brazil next year.
Source: Bhutan Broadcasting Service