By Baron Henri Estramant.
The mission of the Kingdom of Bhutan in Brussels hosted a reception to mark the country’s 107th anniversary of unification into a single kingdom. The Châtelain Boutique Hotel was the venue of the successful celebration which welcomed visitors from The Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, Italy, Cyprus, Hungary, ambassadors of friendly countries as well as governmental officials.
17 December marks the unification of Bhutan through the coronation of King Ugyen Wangchuck as first “Druk Gyalpo” (Dragon King). Large celebrations are held throughout the country including a public address to the nation by The King from Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu.
Bhutan’s current monarch is the world’s youngest (34), His Majesty the 5th Druk Gyalpo, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck since 2006. His retired progenitor, the 4th Druk Gyalpo is still widely revered albeit he is much discreet since his abdication. King Jigme Singye Wangchuck now serves as “The King Father”. He is attributed with being the master mind behind the Gross National Happiness (GNH) concept.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Bhutan in Brussels is responsible for relations to Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Hungary, the UK (though there are no official relations between the two countries as Bhutan does not entertain them with the Great Powers), Germany, the EU, the OPCW and international organisations based in the aforementioned countries.
Head of Mission since 2012 is HE Ambassador Sonam Tshong. The mission moreover oversees an Honorary Consulate in The Hague headed by Mr Cornelis Klein.
