GNH is good for Japan: Lyonchhoen

1 September: The socio-economic development paradigm of gross national happiness (GNH) is suitable for a country like Japan, said Prime Minister Jigmi Y Thinley, at a conference in Fukuoka, Japan.

“Japan, with its unique culture of discipline and industry, dignity and honour, and their resilience to endure the aftermath of World War II, is best suited to imbibe GNH,” said the prime minister on the paradigm’s relevance to a country, which boasts the second largest economy in the world. The GNH development paradigm has become more relevant, especially during these “difficult and uncertain times,” said the prime minister, referring to the current global economic downturn and its consequences.
The prime minister, at the conference organised by the junior chamber of conference, an organisation of young entrepreneurs, also explained the 72 variables that make up the four main pillars of GNH.

The prime minister’s speech was followed by a question-answer session, in which most questions dealt on the quantitative aspect of GNH. The prime minister answered questions on the ability to define, achieve and measure happiness.

Later in the day, the prime minister attended a professional J-league division 2 football match as the chief guest. While in Fukuoka, professor Hibino, a renowned artist, called on the prime minister and presented an exhibition of the art work by his students and volunteers. Professor Hibino has visited Bhutan twice and facilitated the visit of eight students (junior ambassadors) and an escort teacher from Dagana dzongkhag to visit Japan for two weeks in July, 2009. Professor Hibino also hosted a dinner for the prime minister.

The prime minister is currently in Ibusuki city, Kagoshima, where he met with the mayor of the city, Mr Kaname Takarasako, chairman of the city’s assembly, Mr Suzumu Shinguryo, and the Buddhist abbot of a major Shingon temple, Dr Ekan Ikequchi, who is also a revered religious figure in Japan. The prime minister will travel to the Japanese capital, Tokyo, where he will meet with the president of Japan international cooperation agency (JICA), Sadako Ogata, and also attend functions organised by the Japan-Bhutan friendship association and the parliamentary group for Bhutan.

source: kuensel