His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa received here today at the Gudaibiya Palace the Indian External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid. HRH Premier discussed with the Indian official the outstanding deep-rooted bilateral relations and ways of bolstering them at all levels, noting that the steady growth of those ties reflects the two sides' keen desire to enhance joint cooperation so as to meet the aspirations of their two friendly peoples. He affirmed the kingdom's desire to broaden areas of cooperation with friendly India, especially in the investment and trade fields in order to consolidate economic partnership. HRH Premier voiced pride in India's supportive stances towards the kingdom at various regional and international gatherings, which, he said, reflects the solid historical relations bonding GCC countries with India and their joint coordination vis-à-vis many international issues. He praised India's economic, scientific and technological strides which entitled it to be a regional power that mega companies aim to take advantage of its skilled and trained manpower, noting that Bahrain is looking forward to availing of India's scientific and technological progress. HRH Premier lauded the contributions of the Indian community to the kingdom's development march, adding that its members enjoy care, respect and appreciation of Bahrain's leadership and people. The Indian External Affairs Minister lauded HRH Premier's great interest in enhancing bilateral relations in all fields, praising the Premier's role in the kingdom's development and progress march. He expressed his country's desire to broaden cooperation horizons with Bahrain further.