Interview/ Dr Lotay Tshering, former prime minister of Bhutan
With full executive, legislative and judicial autonomy, the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) adopts a unique model that is distinct from the prevailing administrative system in Bhutan. Former prime minister Dr Lotay Tshering is part of the implementation team of the GMC, which allows countries, people and companies from around the world to invest hundred per cent in building a world-class, carbon negative city. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Tshering, a practising surgeon based in Gelephu, says mindful progress, spiritual growth and nature centric development are at the core of the GMC. Excerpts:
Q/ What is the vision behind the GMC?
A/ The GMC is a vision born out of King Jigme’s wish to set up a city that has all the components other countries and cities dream of. By developing the GMC as a special administrative region, he is creating a remarkable system in which all three arms of the government―executive, judiciary and legislative―are autonomous and distinct from the rest of the country. The GMC will be administered by the GMC authority that will be independent of the mainland government. It will be run by domain experts from around the world.
Q/ How is Gelephu creating an economic corridor connecting India’s northeast with southeast Asia?
A/ Gelephu borders Assam and a small tip of West Bengal. It has plains, foothills and hills that present different landscape, biodiversity and climatic regions. The topography is unique, and the conditions are conducive for a full-fledged international airport. Gelephu’s proximity and connection with major Indian cities and its strategic location are most suitable to create an economic corridor that will bring development to the region. King Jigme has met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to discuss the project, and we are ready to take it forward.
Q/ What are the founding principles on which the GMC is being established?
A/ We are not building any conventional city. The king is anchoring the GMC on five main founding principles. The first one is health, which will have a combination of eastern and western medicines, and a blend of modern and traditional medical systems. The second factor is education―what you learn must be applicable in daily life. The third is sustainable energy, as our entire life depends on it. It has to be absolutely green and renewable. The fourth is spirituality and the fifth is wealth management.
Q/ Will there be hundred per cent FDI in GMC?
A/ Currently, our laws do not allow foreigners to own land in any part of the country. Similarly, our FDI policy has certain dos and don’ts in the context of our priorities. But that will not be the case in the GMC. It is a place where well intended, mindful and spiritual individuals should be able to pursue their businesses in the best of environment and circumstances.
Backed by clear legislation, the GMC will offer ideal factors like zero crime and corruption, full transparency and cleanest surroundings. It will not be a place for random businesses and questionable practices. All investors must understand and honour the vision of the GMC before committing to start a business here. The FDI policy will be designed to match the goal and spirit of the GMC.
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Q/ What about investments from countries with which Bhutan does not have diplomatic relations?
A/ There is no inclusion or exclusion criteria. It all boils down to business ideas and investments that align with the vision of the GMC. It will be invitation-based, and investors―be it individual, agency or a country―must follow the GMC guidelines. New immigration laws will be adopted and facilitated efficiently. The GMC authority will ensure creating favourable atmosphere for the investors to come and build businesses based on the values of the GMC.
Q/ How will you ensure that the GMC does not become a strategic battleground for Bhutan’s two neighbours―India and China?
A/ We are a tiny country between two global giants. We draw confidence from Bhutan’s political stability and continuity of leadership. Through generations, we have maintained good and friendly bonds with all our neighbours.
Bhutan has excellent relations with both [India and China], and in turn, we receive warm and friendly gestures from both. The GMC embodies coexistence, harmony and sustainable innovation. Our aspirations are to sustain peace and progress in the world, just as our developmental philosophy is anchored on the principles of gross national happiness. Therefore, it is our prayer that through the realisation of the GMC, a prosperous and sustainable future is built in the region and beyond.