New Delhi, Oct 31 (ANI): Expressing satisfaction over the cooperation in the hydropower sector, India and Bhutan have reiterated their commitment to achieve the target of 10,000 MW of power generation in Bhutan by 2020.
The King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty the Queen, Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck, paid a state-visit to India from October 23 to 31 at the invitation of President Pratibha Devisingh Patil.
Their Majesties were accompanied by the Minister for Economic Affairs and Minster-In-Charge of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk, the Minister for Home and Cultural Affairs, His Excellency Lyonpo Minjur Dorji, Chief Operations Officer, Royal Bhutan Army, Maj. Gen. Batoo Tshering and other senior officials of the Royal Government of Bhutan.
A special importance was attached to this first visit abroad by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen after the Royal Wedding on October 13. The visit reinforced the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.
While in India, Their Majesties met President Patil, who felicitated them on their marriage and wished them happiness and a long life together.
President Patil also hosted a banquet in honour of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen.
Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj, Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur, National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon and Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai called on His Majesty the King.
Their Majesties also met UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi.
The King of Bhutan held talks with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who also hosted a lunch in honour of Their Majesties.
They exchanged views and held discussions on bilateral relations and economic cooperation as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. They recalled the strong historical ties of friendship and understanding that exist between the two countries.
His Majesty the King and the Prime Minister of India expressed satisfaction at the excellent state of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen these exemplary relations.
His Majesty the King conveyed appreciation for the invaluable support that the Government of India provides for Bhutan's socio-economic development.
The meetings were held in a very warm and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of trust, cooperation and deep understanding that characterize the bilateral relations between the two countries.
His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen also visited Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur.
The visit of Their Majesties to India marks an important milestone in the close and friendly relations between the two countries and has contributed significantly towards further strengthening the profound friendship, mutual understanding, trust and cooperation between India and Bhutan.
His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen expressed deep appreciation to the Government and the people of India for the warm reception and gracious hospitality extended to them and the members of their delegation. (ANI)
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