Bhutan, “The Land of the Thunder Dragon”, has welcomed Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida, who are visiting the country as guests of the Bhutanese monarch.
The Thai royals arrived yesterday at Paro International Airport, about 50 kilometres from the capital of Thimphu.
They were received by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Queen Jetsun Pema, other members of the Bhutanese royal family and cheering crowds.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn, a qualified military pilot, was seen flying the aircraft himself, with Queen Suthida serving as co-pilot.
This four-day state visit marks the first foreign visit of the Thai King since his ascension to the throne.
Upon arrival, the Thai King and Queen were welcomed by a guard of honour and extravagant cultural performances, before proceeding to Thimphu.
Bhutanese media reported that the Dechencholing Palace will be full of festivities, as the King and Queen of Bhutan host a state banquet in honour of their esteemed guests.
The King and Queen of Thailand were officially welcomed by the King and Queen of Bhutan at Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu.
The King and Queen of Thailand were officially welcomed by the King and Queen of Bhutan at Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu.
Today, Their Majesties will visit the Buddha Dordenma, where Thai and Bhutanese monks will come together in sacred chants, offering spiritual blessings.
The royal couple will also meet the venerable Fourth King of Bhutan.
In the afternoon, the Thai royals are scheduled to visit several development projects, witnessing the innovative collaboration between the Royal Projects of Thailand and Bhutan first hand, alongside Bhutan’s One Gewog, One Product (OGOP) initiative, a shining example of community-driven ingenuity.
Tomorrow, the focus will be on cultural immersion at Lingkana Palace, where Their Majesties will experience the rich tapestry of Bhutanese culture, including intricately woven textiles and traditional garments.
The visit to Bhutan will conclude with a spiritual pilgrimage to Dungkar Dzong, in the scenic Paro Valley, where the royal couple will pay homage to the Shakyamuni Buddha.
Photo by HM King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s FB
Additional information from THAI.NEWS
