India, Bhutan plan rail link

In an effort to boost economic ties, India and Bhutan have decided to establish a rail link between the two countries and will ink agreement for setting up joint power projects in the Himalayan Kingdom.

The two sides will also sign an agreement for close cooperation in agriculture and animal husbandry, during the four-day visit of Bhutan King Jigme Singye Wangchuk.

An agreement will be signed for establishing a rail link between Assam and West Bengal and some important places in Bhutan, Wangchuk said in New Delhi after being accorded a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

He said the step will have a positive impact on the economic relations of the two countries.

An agreement concerning two 'very large' projects will also be signed, said Wangchuk, who will be the chief guest at this year's Republic Day.

The Bhutan King said the agreements would go a long way in furthering close relations between the two countries.