New Delhi, August 3:

India’s President APJ Abdul Kalam today met with Bhutanese King Jigme Singye Wangchuck and discussed a range of bilateral issues, including the successful cooperation between the two neighbours, particularly in the energy sector.

New Delhi has also repeated its commitment to the economic development of Bhutan and expressed hopes of enhancing commercial and strategic relations.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Wangchuck, who arrived here on a four-day visit Monday, held talks on trade and commerce, and cooperation in the defence and energy sectors here last evening. “The two expressed satisfaction on bilateral relations and on the successful working of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector,” a statement from the PMO said today.

Describing the meeting as “cordial and fruitful,” the statement added: “The prime minister emphasised India’s strong commitment to the economic development of Bhutan and the welfare of the people of Bhutan.”