Princess Akiko visited Bhutan to mark the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations
Princess Akiko of Mikasa visited Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) in Bhutan and had an audience with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The visit marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Japan, according to NDTV World.
The princess arrived in Bhutan at the invitation of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. During her visit to GMC, she toured ChoeGo GMC and the city of Gelephu with the king, and also visited Ugyen Norlha Chorten, where she offered prayers.
Akiko of Mikasa is the granddaughter of the late Japanese Emperor Shōwa.
For more breaking news, follow the UA.News Telegram channel.
Gelephu Mindfulness City is a development project in southern Bhutan, near the border with the Indian state of Assam. It covers an area of more than 2,600 square kilometers, or approximately 5% of Bhutan’s territory. The project aims to create an economic and administrative hub that will combine Bhutanese traditions of spirituality and harmony with nature with technology, innovation, and modern infrastructure.
In December 2024, the GMC was established by royal charter as a special administrative region with a high degree of autonomy. According to the GMC, the region will have executive and legislative powers, as well as an independent judicial system operating separately from the Royal Government of Bhutan.
India is collaborating with Bhutan to improve transportation links to Gelephu, specifically through the proposed Kokrajhar–Gelephu railway line. It is expected to strengthen economic ties between the countries and provide Bhutan with access to India’s railway network and ports. The GMC also plans to establish a national park, a wildlife sanctuary, agricultural centers, and small towns. According to GMC estimates, local rivers have the potential to generate between 4,000 and 5,000 MW of renewable energy.
