EVENTS
THE CHAIRPERSON OF NATIONAL COUNCIL OF BHUTAN CALLS-ON THE PRESIDENT
The Hon'ble President of India received in Rashtrapati Bhavan a Parliamentary delegation consisting of 7 members led by His Excellency Mr. Namgay Penjore, Chairperson, National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan. His Excellency Shri Tshering Topgay, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly (Lower House) of Bhutan was also Member of the delegation.
The Hon'ble President welcomed the delegation from Bhutan which he described as a close, friendly neighbour. He complimented the delegation for the progress Bhutan has made in establishing parliamentary democracy and said he has watched with interest how Bhutan has transformed itself into a Parliamentary democracy under the patronage of His Majesty, the King. He pointed out that India's assistance to Bhutan was multi-faceted and assured the delegation that India will always stand by its traditional, close friend and neighbour. He paid tribute to Bhutan's efforts to balance environment with all round development through the concept of Gross National Happiness and said India is proud to be a partner of Bhutan.
The Hon'ble President called upon Bhutan's Parliament to adapt from India's experience what is appropriate to its circumstances. The Hon'ble President described the India-Bhutan relationship as unique and said India will ensure that projects undertaken by it are implemented in time and will provide benefit to both countries.
The Chairperson of the National Council expressed confidence that India will go from strength to strength under the wise and far-sighted leadership of the nation. He expressed gratitude for India's assistance in Bhutan's development, especially for its ten five year plans and for the assistance received from the Election Commission in the conduct of Bhutan's elections. He said the people of Bhutan are learning the value of democracy and Bhutan has come all this way because of the friendship and cooperation of the people of India. The people of Bhutan look forward to strengthening and growing this special relationship. The Chairperson pointed out that India's assistance during the 10th Plan of Bhutan was almost 50% more than what India provided in the 9th Plan. He expressed sincere gratitude for the assistance rendered to Bhutan in all fields by India. As a friend and neighbour who has benefited from India, Bhutan will always stand by India, both with regard to India's socio-economic development and for its efforts in the international arena.
