India and Bhutan Are Natural Partners: PM Modi on State Visit

PM Modi was on a two-day state visit to Bhutan. This was his first visit since his re-election.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks at the Royal University of Bhutan, in Thimphu on Sunday during his state visit. 

(Photo: PTI)

“No two countries in the world understand each other so well or share so much as India and Bhutan,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, 18 August, as he emphasised that New Delhi and Thimphu are “natural partners” in bringing prosperity to their peoples.

Addressing the students of the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan in Thimpu, Modi said, “It’s natural that the people of Bhutan and India experience great attachment to each other. After all, they are close not just due to their geography. Their history, culture and spiritual traditions have created unique and deep bonds between our peoples and nations.”

According to ANI, Bhutan Prime Minister (Dr.) Lotay Tshering in Paro said, “The main theme of PM Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan this time, was healthy people-to-people contact. He came with a big smile & left with a big smile.” He also spoke about the Indian government’s efforts to build a ground station, as a part of India’s South Asia satellite, in Bhutan. He said, “Through PM Modi's leadership, ISRO is willing to help us build human capacity in that. We are looking forward to it.”

Speaking in the presence of Tshering, Modi further said:

“India is fortunate to be the land where Prince Siddhartha became Gautam Buddha. And from where the light of his spiritual message, the light of Buddhism, spread all over the world. Generations of monks, spiritual leaders, scholars and seekers have burnt that flame bright in Bhutan. They have also nurtured the special bond between India and Bhutan.”

PM Modi in Bhutan

Modi arrived in Bhutan on Saturday on a two-day state visit. This was his second visit to the country and the first since his re-election.

“During this visit, I have had the opportunity to interact closely with the present leadership of Bhutan. I once again received their guidance for the India-Bhutan relationship, which has always benefited from their close and personal attention,” he said.

Bhutan’s Message to Humanity is Happiness: PM Modi

In his address to the students of the Royal University of Bhutan, PM Modi also said that Bhutan has understood the essence of happiness and it is not a surprise that the Himalayan nation has become synonymous in the world for its concept of Gross National Happiness.

Modi said the world had a lot to learn from Bhutan where development, environment and culture are not at loggerheads but in synergy.

"In any part of the world, if we ask the question what do you associate with Bhutan, the answer will be the concept of Gross National Happiness. I am not surprised. Bhutan has understood the essence of happiness," he said.

“Bhutan’s message to humanity is happiness. Happiness which springs from harmony. The world can do with a lot more happiness. Happiness, which shall prevail over mindless hate. If people are happy, there will be harmony, where there is harmony, there will be peace. And it is peace that will help societies achieve progress through sustainable development.”

PM Modi

Modi on Sunday also met with Bhutan's Leader of Opposition Pema Gyamtsho and the two leaders discussed issues of bilateral interests.

(With inputs from PTI)