A strong India to help neighbours: Modi

Addressing a joint session of the Bhutan Parliament on Monday morning, Modi said: "A strong and stable India is needed to ensure we can help our neighbours. If India progresses, it will directly impact the development of neighbours."

He said India will make its ties to Bhutan stronger.

"The relationship between India and Bhutan is historic. The new government is committed to make this even stronger," Modi said.

Modi stressed on his B for B - Bharat for Bhutan - relations theory, and said, "India-Bhutan relations are bound by rich cultural traditions."

He added, "Close India and Bhutan relations transcend changes in governments."

He also appreciated the smooth transition from monarchy to democracy in Bhutan.

"The smooth transition from monarchy to democracy shows the political maturity in Bhutan. It is an example of people's awareness. I commend the way Bhutan has transitioned into a democracy in seven years," he said.

"It's commendable the way Bhutan royal family has protected the rights of its ordinary citizens," he added.

Earlier, Modi described the relationship between India and Bhutan as “made for each other”, and said India stands committed to Bhutan’s happiness and progress.

In a speech at the banquet hosted by Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay, he said this was his first visit to Bhutan, and the tremendous enthusiasm with which the people had greeted and welcomed him, right from the airport, and on the way to Thimphu, and throughout the day – would remain etched in his memory forever.

Talking of the India-Bhutan relationship, Modi said: "The two countries share not just land boundaries, but a common glorious cultural tradition. Our passports may have a different colour, but our values and thinking are the same. We may wear different clothes and speak different languages, but our feelings are one."

The Prime Minister said while the world talks of GDP, Bhutan talks of National Happiness.

He said there could be many parameters to measure happiness, but he wished to suggest a new one – how is your neighbour.

Among the many parameters on which Bhutan measures happiness, having a good friend like India should be one of them, Modi said.

The Prime Minister also said the way Bhutan has progressed despite natural constraints is commendable.

"The Government may have changed in India, but we will continue to build on our shared cultural values and make our relationship stronger," he said.

He said the relationship should develop in a multi-faceted way, beyond just financial consideration.