Bhutan announces royal birth

Bhutan has welcomed the first child, heir apparent to the throne, on Friday afternoon, the royal palace has announced.
The first royal child of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema was born on February 5, 2016, coinciding with the 27th day of the 12th Bhutanese month, at the Linkhana Palace in Thimphu.

A news release from the Royal Office of Media stated that with the blessings of the guardian deities of Bhutan and protectors of the dharma and the prayers of the Bhutanese people, Her Majesty and His Royal Highness The Gyalsey are both in perfect health.

The statement reads, “His Majesty The King was at Her Majesty’s side during the time of the delivery. Following the Royal birth, the newly born Prince was first presented to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.”

All sacred Bhutanese traditions were observed for the auspicious occasion, with His Holiness the Je Khenpo presiding over the religious ceremonies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreigner to extend greetings to the royal couple on the first of their first child.

“Congratulations to Their Majesties the King and Queen of Bhutan on birth of their first child
The Gyalsey,” Modi tweeted.