20th August, 2012: His Majesty the King granted an audience to the participants of the National Graduates Orientation Program 2012.
His Majesty reiterated His belief that “as a landlocked nation with a small population, the true foundation lies in the strength and character of our Bhutanese people”.
His Majesty shared, “When I was a child, His Majesty the 4th Druk Gyalpo, my father, asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I replied that I would serve my country. So you see, you and I, we are the same. Our fundamental underlying ambition is to serve our country.”
Our Druk Gyalpo also added that, “We were yesterday’s children. Today we are tomorrow’s parents responsible for our nation and for laying the foundation for the next generation. Remember, the future will reflect what we do today. We cannot foresee it but as long as we approach it with the right intentions and values, I assure you of a very bright future.”
His Majesty the King concluded the address by saying how proud he was to be Bhutanese. His Majesty said:
· I am Proud of the peace, stability, harmony and security we have in this world of uncertainty.
· I am Proud of the unique culture and heritage we have preserved and strengthened.
· I am Proud that we have respected the sanctity of our environment and the wellbeing of all sentient beings.
· I am Proud of the unprecedented and historic transition to democracy.
· I am Proud of the fact that in spite of being a small Nation, we have one of the most admired leaders in the world - His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck - my father.
· I am Proud of the fact that we are proud to be Bhutanese.
· Above all, I am Proud of You!
His Majesty ended by saying, “We all love our country, but remember, its one thing to love your country but quite another to love your country in the most intelligent manner.”
His Majesty the King was accompanied by Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen and Their Royal Highnesses Princess Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck and Princess Kezang Choden Wangchuck.
Following His Majesty’s address, Their Royal Highnesses distributed the certificates of participation to the graduates.

23 August 2012: His Majesty the King granted an audience to a delegation of religious persons from Japan. The 86-member delegation that includes 35 senior monks from Sotoshu school of Buddhism, traveled to Bhutan to convey the appreciation of the Japanese people to the people of Bhutan for the solidarity and prayers when Japan was struck with the earthquake in 2011.

I see Jetsun behind him
29 August 2012: His Majesty the King granted an audience to the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, General Bikram Singh, who is on a goodwill visit to Bhutan.


