Karachi, May 9, 2025: In a significant development for South Asian diplomacy and sustainable development, Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, has shared his insights and aspirations in an exclusive interview featured in the May 2025 issue of SouthAsia.
“The demands of this century are both qualitatively and quantitatively different,” Tshering Tobgay, Bhutan’s Prime Minister, said in his exclusive interview, which was conducted by Professor Dr. Ying Zhang, the President of the Singularity Academy in Switzerland.
The interview offers an in-depth look into Bhutan’s evolving economic strategies, regional collaborations, and the nation’s commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a guiding principle. In his interview, Bhutan’s Prime Minister discussed Bhutan’s ambitious plans to address contemporary challenges while preserving its unique cultural and environmental heritage. Prime Minister Tobgay emphasized the necessity for purpose-driven investments and talent that align with Bhutan’s GNH values and commitment to sustainability. He highlights the creation of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) as a cornerstone of this vision—a pioneering urban development that integrates economic growth with spiritual and environmental consciousness.
The GMC is envisioned as the world’s first mindfulness city, serving as an economic hub in the rapidly developing South Asian region. Spanning 2,600 square kilometers, the city aims to provide world-class infrastructure, including airports, residential homes, offices, recreational facilities, educational institutions, healthcare services, and hospitality services. However, the true focus will be on the “software”—the essential, often intangible elements that define the city’s character and purpose. This initiative underscores Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development and its unique approach to balancing progress with cultural preservation.
Prime Minister Tobgay also discussed Bhutan’s economic strategies in detail, emphasizing the importance of diversifying the economy and attracting investments that align with the nation’s values. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the global economic landscape but remained optimistic about Bhutan’s potential to thrive through innovation, collaboration, and adherence to its GNH principles.
“The future is digital, and our education system needs to continuously evolve to keep pace and ensure that our children’s education is relevant and creates conscientious citizens,” he added.
This interview serves as a vital resource for policymakers, scholars, and citizens interested in understanding Bhutan’s approach to development and regional cooperation. It offers valuable insights into how a small nation can navigate the complexities of the modern world while staying true to its core values.
The full interview is available in the May 2025 issue of Monthly SouthAsia or visit https://southasia.com.pk/2025/04/30/demands-of-this-century-are-qualitatively-and-quantitatively-different/ .
