New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described his visit to Bhutan as “very satisfying and productive” and one that will “remain etched in my memory”.
He also said it was his “inner voice” that made him pick Bhutan for his first foreign trip as PM. The sentiments were expressed in a tweet by him upon his return Monday from his two-day visit to Bhutan, his first trip abroad after becoming PM.
Earlier, making it clear that India wants to deepen its engagement with its close neighbour, the PM, while addressing a joint session of Bhutan’s National Assembly Monday morning, said, “When Bhutan moves ahead, India too feels like taking steps ahead to support Bhutan.”
In a short span of time, Bhutan has developed immense faith in democratic institutions. This is wonderful for Bhutan's development journey.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 16, 2014Read: Narendra Modi’s ‘B4B’ model aims to cement Bhutan ties
In his address, the PM also said that a strong Bhutan will benefit India like a strong and prosperous India will be beneficial for countries of the region, especially Saarc members. “India’s prosperity is important as then it can help small countries and perform its duty of a good neighbour. But if India is weak and struggling with its own problems, then how can it help others,” said the PM.
India plans to create an e-library network in Bhutan & we would double scholarships being given to students of Bhutan.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 16, 2014The PM also assured the Bhutanese that India’s prosperity will benefit all its neighbours in South Asia. He said the close ties between India and Bhutan transcend changes in government. In his speech, the PM also noted that India-Bhutan hydro-power cooperation is “part of our collective efforts against global warming”. The PM described the Himalayas as a shared legacy and said that there is a need to develop the ecology of the region.
Read: Narendra Modi’s oops moment in Bhutan Parliament irks Twitteratis
Touched by welcome song sung by primary school students during the luncheon hosted by His Majesty the King of Bhutan pic.twitter.com/Jl6Kkg4RDl
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 16, 2014Read: Bhutanese make an exception for Narendra Modi, clap after address
Read: After 'satisfying' Bhutan visit, PM Narendra Modi now eyes Japan
Watch: Narendra Modi address in the Bhutanese Parliament
