The Bhutan king and queen have announced the birth of their second son on Thursday.
A statement uploaded on the Facebook page of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck said: “We are honoured to announce the birth of the second Royal Child of Their Majesties The King and Queen, a Prince, on the 19th of March 2020, corresponding with the 25th day of the 1st month of the Male Iron Rat year, in Lingkana Palace, Thimphu.”
Stating that the health of both the queen and the royal baby are in good condition, it was stated that “Royal Highness The Gyalsey was delighted to meet his younger brother”.
Both King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema have expressed their gratitude to the medical team, the Zhung Dratshang and to everyone for their well-wishes and prayers.
“While this remains a very happy occasion for the Royal family and the nation and people of Bhutan, Their Majesties wish to remind all Bhutanese to be mindful, responsible and supportive to each other in the wake of the COVID-19 virus,” said the statement.
The king and queen also said they “have everyone whose lives have been affected by this global pandemic in their thoughts and prayers”.
Former Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay while sharing the Facebook post tweeted: “Pelden Drukpa Gyelo!!!!”
Pelden Drukpa Gyelo!!!! pic.twitter.com/8qI2mORrN8
— Tshering Tobgay (@tsheringtobgay) March 19, 2020
King Jigme Khesar had married Jetsun Pema in October 2011 in Punakha Dzong.
Jigme Khesar became king in December 2006, following his father Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s abdication, and was officially crowned two years later.