Gelefu:The Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, attended the opening ceremony of the 108 Stupa Project in Gelefu. The event took place at the invitation of the Bhutanese government, highlighting the friendship and trust between Thailand and Bhutan. During his visit, the Prime Minister also had an audience with His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan.

According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony commenced at 900 AM Bhutan local time, with Mr. Ekkapop Pienpises, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealing that Anutin Charnvirakul, along with his wife and delegation, was the sole foreign leader invited to the event. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by the Bhutanese Prime Minister and several ministers, underlining the significance of the Thai government's presence.

His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan graced the celebration ceremony for the 108 stupas project, conceived by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The project aims to construct 108 Jangchub Chortens along the banks of the Mao Chhu River in Gelephu. The construction, supported by over 40,000 volunteers, was to be completed within 24 hours.

The Thai Prime Minister's participation underscores the strong ties between Thailand and Bhutan, particularly during events integrating religious, cultural, and national dimensions. It also provided insight into Bhutan's development philosophy and the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative, which emphasizes quality of life and sustainability.

The ceremony coincided with Lhabab Dchen, a significant day in Vajrayana Buddhism, and the coronation anniversary of Bhutan's King. The spokesperson for the Prime Minister's office noted that the visit was an opportunity for Thailand to engage with Bhutan's future city development agenda and exchange ideas on urban development.

Before departing for Paro and returning to Thailand, the Prime Minister and his delegation met with Bhutan's King and Queen. They are expected to arrive back in Thailand by 800 PM.