Thimphu, June 16 (IANS): India and Bhutan issued a joint statement at the end of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first official visit to the Himalayan nation. Major points of the joint statement:
* The two sides exchanged views and held discussions on bilateral relations and economic cooperation as well as cooperation in regional and multilateral forum.
* The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the allround socio-economic development achieved by Bhutan with the assistance and support of India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the commitment of the Government of India to support Bhutan for the successful implementation of the 11th Five Year Plan.
* Prime Minister Modi reassured Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of India's continued commitment to capacity building, especially in the education and IT sectors in Bhutan.
* The two sides expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the hydropower sector and reiterated their commitment to achieving the 10,000 MW target.
* The two leaders expressed satisfaction at completion of the Supreme Court building and the imminent commencement of the construction of the 600 MW Kholongchhu Hydroelectric Project.
* The Government of India conveyed its decision to exempt Bhutan from any ban or quantitative restrictions on exports of following items: Milk powder, wheat, edible oil, pulses and non-basmati rice. The two sides agreed to further promote trade and investments between the two countries.
* Prime Minister Modi announced doubling of the Nehru-Wangchuck scholarship to Rs.20 million per year. India will also provide grant assistance for establishment of the digital section/ E-library in the National Library of Bhutan and in all 20 districts of Bhutan.
* The two sides agreed to continue with their close coordination and cooperation on issues relating to national interests, and not allow each other's territory to be used for interests inimical to the other.
* The visit of Prime Minister Modi to Bhutan further strengthened the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.