NEW DELHI, Dec. 3 -- The Indian government Wednesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign trips have bolstered bilateral ties and attracted international investments to this country.

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj told the Parliament such trips "will help us achieve the mission of a developed India," in response to barbs by opposition parties that Modi has become an "NRI (Non Resident Indian) PM."

She claimed that the prime minister has been successful in signing various international pacts on energy and security cooperation during his visits.

"Modi believes in cooperation of neighboring countries which is why he invited them to his swearing-in ceremony in May. The prime minister on many occasions, has said that a developed India can only be based on a secure India," Swaraj said.

Indian Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu said Wednesday that the prime minister will come to the Parliament " when it is needed."

"The prime minister has his responsibilities, he is doing his work," he said.

Modi has visited nine countries in six months of coming to power. In November, Modi visited Myanmar for ASEAN summit and East Asia Summit. He then went to Australia and Fiji.

Modi's frequent foreign tours and absence from Parliament has given the Opposition a handle to take jibe at him and ask if a visa would have to be issued for him to visit the Parliament saying that Modi is disrespecting the Parliament by not being present when the session is on.

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