President Pranab Mukherjee today India looks forward to continuing close cooperation with Bhutan on issues of national interest, including mutual security interests.
Mukherjee told Bhutan's newly-elected Prime Minister Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, who called on him here on his maiden visit to India since assuming office last month, that Bhutan's 11th Five Year Plan for 2013-18 has commenced and Indian officials have discussed in detail that country's requirement under government of India assistance for the Plan.
He said he is delighted that government of India will meet the requirements of Bhutanese government.
"Reciprocating the President's sentiments, the Bhutanese Prime Minister hoped his visit would further enhance the ties of friendship between Bhutan and India and go a long way in strengthening their relations," a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said.
Welcoming Tobgay and his delegation, the President congratulated him and his party for the impressive victory in the second democratic elections in Bhutan.
The President said Bhutan has in the last five years completed a historical transition to democratic and constitutional monarchy and such a smooth change-over is a tribute to Bhutan's wise leadership.
Mukherjee said Indian government looks forward to working closely with the Prime Minister and his new team.
