THIMPHU: Bhutanese citizens have re-elected Tshering Tobgay as their Prime Minister for a second term, as his party secured almost two-thirds of the seats, according to the election commission’s Wednesday announcement.

The electoral landscape was overshadowed by significant economic challenges, prompting discussions about Bhutan’s traditional emphasis on “Gross National Happiness” over economic growth.

Situated between China and India, the world’s most populous nations, Bhutan’s strategic contested border zones drew close attention from both countries during the election.

Tobgay, the leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former prime minister from 2013 to 2018, secured 30 out of 47 seats in Tuesday’s election, as per official figures.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a crucial trading partner for Bhutan, extended his congratulations to Tobgay through a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Tobgay, emphasizing his commitment to enhancing ties with India, including the development of rail links, reciprocated by expressing gratitude to Modi.

The landlocked nation of Bhutan, with a population of approximately 800,000 people and a geographical size comparable to Switzerland, faces a pivotal period under Tobgay’s leadership.

The 58-year-old Tobgay, a former civil servant and fervent conservation advocate, possesses a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master’s in public administration from Harvard.

Notably, Tobgay also served as the leader of the opposition in Bhutan’s inaugural parliament, established in 2008, shortly after the commencement of the current king’s reign.

(Inputs from Agencies)