KING OF BHUTAN CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA

UNCLAS NEW DELHI 002872 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR S/ES-CR AND S/ES-O E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL OVIP KDEM PGOV PHUM BT IN SUBJECT: KING OF BHUTAN CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA REF: SECSTATE 118192 ¶1. (U) Even in the midst of hi coronation celebrations, His Majesty the Fifth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck sent a congratulatory message to President-Elect Barack Obama via fax on November 5. The speed with which the Bhutanese sent the message reflects the intense interest the U.S. election has generated in the region. It also augers well for still closer ties with the tiny Himalayan nation, including the possibility of establishing formal diplomatic relations in the near future. ¶2. (U) Below is the text of the letter. We will forward the original, and fax a copy, to SCA/INS. ¶3. (U) Begin text: H.E. Mr. Barack Obama President-elect of the United States of America Washington, D.C. Your Excellency, It is with great pleasure that I extend, on behalf of the people and Government of Bhutan and on my own behalf, our sincere and warm felicitations to Your Excellency on your historic election as President of the United States of America. Your Excellency's election is a clear reflection of the trust and confidence that the people of the United States of America have in Your Excellency's outstanding leadership qualities and commitment to lead your great nation in this challenging time. I take this opportunity to wish Your Excellency and the friendly people of the United States continued peace, prosperity and hapiness. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration. //signed// Jigme Khesar King of Bhutan End text. WHITE