THIMPHU, June 16 � Prime Minister Narendra Modi today concluded his �extremely successful� first foreign visit since assuming office with a message to Bhutan and other neighbouring countries that a strong and prosperous India was in their interest, reports PTI.
The upshot of the two-day visit by India�s leader to this tiny kingdom was a decision by the two countries to scale up their ties that cover security interests and cooperation in a wide variety of fields.
Bhutan promised not to allow its territory to be used against India, an assurance that comes against the backdrop of militants from north-eastern India taking shelter there.
The two countries agreed to continue with their close coordination and cooperation on issues relating to their national interests and not allow each other�s territory to be used for interests inimical to the other, said a joint statement issued at the end of the visit.
Modi later tweeted that the trip will remain etched in his memory. �This Bhutan trip will remain etched in my memory; it was a very satisfying & productive visit,� he said in a tweet on his return to Delhi.
Earlier, addressing the joint session of the Bhutanese National Assembly, Modi said a 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.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who accompanied Modi on the visit, described the visit as �extremely successful� and that the Indian side was �extremely satisfied� with it.
Before winding up the visit, Modi gave an assurance that a change of government in Delhi will not affect their ties and past commitments will be fulfilled.
