His Majesty the King and the Gyaltshuen joined the Japanese community in Thimphu today to mark the first anniversary of the devastating earthquake and tsunami which struck Japan last year.
Their Majesties offered butter lamps and prayers for the victims at Changgangkha Monastery.
Over a hundred Japanese community led by the Resident Representative, Tomoki Nitta, also joined Their Majesties in offering the prayers and butter lamps.
Later, His Majesty and the Gyaltshuen interacted with the Japanese and expressed condolences.
Some of the Japanese said they are extremely touched by their Majesties taking out time to be with them and offer prayers and butter lamps for the victims.
Some of them said that this will also strengthen a relationship between the two nations and also at the people to people level.
The Prime Minister, Jigmi Y Thinley, and Finance Minister were also present at the ceremony.
