Want to take forward Bhutan-Bharat hydropower cooperation: Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a joint session of the Bhutanese parliament, here Monday said India wanted to take forward its hydropower cooperation with the Himalayan country in a major way and also equip its youth with technology to be able to match strides with others in the world.

Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly and National Council, Modi, speaking in Hindi, also said he chose to visit Bhutan for his maiden tour overseas as the relations between the two neighbours goes back many years and are very strong.

He praised Bhutan for showing so much progress despite adversity.

"Bharat-Bhutan cooperation in the field of hydropower is going strong. I want to take it forward," said Modi, adding that their cooperation in the area should be an example to the world in sustainable development.

He praised the royal family of Bhutan for the progress of the Himalayan nation.

He said that India's proposal, announced Sunday, on setting up a digital library in Bhutan was aimed at connecting the youth of both countries.

"Whatever technology is required, India is ready to provide, to help the youth of Bhutan match steps with others in the world," he said.

Modi said he could have chosen to go to any big nation after the huge mandate he got in the election, but he decided on Bhutan. "But I wanted to go to Bhutan, so I did not have to think.. We share such close and friendly ties," he said.

Modi arrived here Sunday a two-day visit.