India committed to good ties with neighbours: Modi

Declaring India's commitment to good neighbourly relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today sent out a clear message that a "strong and prosperous" India can help smaller countries in the region.
Modi, who wrapped up his two-day visit to the Himalayan country, assured Bhutan that all the commitments made by earlier governments would be implemented by his government.
He said that change in government will not alter the dynamics of Indo-Bhutan ties, as he vowed to further deepen the relationship through certain new proposals like organising joint sports events between Bhutan and India's northeastern states and setting up a Himalaya University for joint research.

Addressing a joint session of Bhutan's Parliament, Modi emphasised that the ties between the two countries were historic and the doors to their "hearts" were open to each other.
"Strong Bhutan will benefit India like a strong and prosperous India will be beneficial for the countries of the region, especially the 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," he said.
He said India was always conscious of its responsibility towards its neighbours and in this context referred to the invitation extended to SAARC leaders for his swearing in ceremony last month. "It added sheen to the event."

On Indo-Bhutan ties, he said, "Governments have changed but that has not affected the closely-knit ties," and quoted former Bhutan King to say that India and Bhutan were like "milk and water".

Modi electronically laid the foundation stone for 600 MW Kholongchu Hydro-electric project, a joint venture between India and Bhutan.
He also lauded Bhutan for the smooth transition from monarchy to democracy in a span of seven years which showed maturity in governance in that country.
63-year-old Modi arrived here yesterday on his first foreign trip after assuming office last month.
The fact that the Prime Minister chose Bhutan as his first foreign destination assumes significance since China has lately intensified efforts to woo it and establish full- fledged diplomatic ties with Thimphu.