Bhutanese Australians are gearing up with immense enthusiasm as His Majesty the King prepares for a significant state visit spanning October 10 to 18. The royal tour will encompass major cities including Sydney, Canberra, and Perth, igniting a surge of joy and anticipation within the Bhutanese diaspora across the nation.
Social media platforms are currently flooded with touching tributes and emotional messages, underscoring the profound connection between the King and his people, irrespective of geographical distances. This visit serves as a testament to the enduring love and strong ties Bhutanese Australians maintain with their monarch and homeland.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade has outlined that His Majesty’s itinerary includes meetings with Australian government officials, business leaders, and the Bhutanese community residing in Australia. Specific dates for key stops are set, with the King arriving in Sydney on October 12, Canberra on October 13, and Perth on October 16. Details regarding the timings and venues for royal audiences are pending announcement from the Royal Bhutanese Embassy in Canberra.
“The Royal visit underscores His Majesty’s unwavering dedication to Bhutanese citizens abroad, particularly those in Australia. Ensuring that every Bhutanese wishing to participate in the royal audiences is accommodated remains a top priority,” the Foreign Ministry conveyed.
Gopilal Acharya, a former journalist based in Perth, expressed the widespread elation among Bhutanese Australians. “This visit holds immense significance for our community. It’s a unique opportunity to reaffirm our bond with our beloved King and deepen our connection with Bhutan,” Acharya stated. He added, “Hearing His Majesty’s vision for Bhutan and our collective future is something we eagerly await. The King is like a father to us all, and one can only imagine the joy children feel when reunited with their father.”
The royal visit is also perceived as a gesture of gratitude towards Australia for its long-standing support of Bhutan. Since the 1960s, Australia has played a pivotal role in Bhutan’s international relations, including its participation in the Colombo Plan and active engagement with the United Nations.
Australia proudly hosts the largest Bhutanese community outside of Bhutan. In 2023, approximately 12,622 Bhutanese students were enrolled in Australian higher education institutions, positioning Bhutan as the 14th largest source of international students in the country. This figure does not account for accompanying family members.
Tandin Dorji, Managing Director at Kingston International College, highlighted the significance of the King’s visit in strengthening Bhutan-Australia relations. “Australia has been a generous host, offering education and opportunities to Bhutanese individuals. His Majesty’s visit will not only bolster these ties but also inspire our diaspora community,” Dorji remarked. He continued, “The presence of the King will instill a sense of pride among Bhutanese Australians, reaffirming His Majesty’s care and attention towards us, regardless of where we live.”
Preparations for the visit are in full swing within the Bhutanese community. Tashi Dorji, a former editor with Business Bhutan, noted that many community members are taking time off work to attend royal audiences. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us,” he commented.
Similarly, Bhutanese students at Murdoch University have been proactive, requesting the university administration to suspend classes during the King’s visit to facilitate participation in the events. “We are leaving no stone unturned to meet His Majesty and engage with him directly,” a student shared.
As the dates draw nearer, the Bhutanese community in Australia eagerly anticipates the royal visit, viewing it as a momentous occasion to celebrate their heritage, strengthen their bonds, and honor the enduring legacy of their beloved King.
