Thimphu (PTI): Bhutan's first democratically elected Prime Minister Jigmi Y Thinley will embark on a four-day visit to India on Monday, his first trip abroad after assuming power in April, to strengthen economic cooperation between the age-old allies, especially in the power sector.

Foreign Affairs Minister Ugyen Tshering, Economic Affairs Minister Khandu Wangchuck and Finance Minister Wangdi Norbu will be among the 42 delegates who will accompany Thinley.

Tshering said the "goodwill visit" was very significant for Bhutan because it would further contribute towards strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

"India has taken the visit at a state level and it really shows the extent of good relations between the two countries. It has been accorded the highest level of courtesy a host can show," he told reporters here.

During the visit, Thinley will call on President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

He will also meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition L K Advani.

Wangchuck said the visit, besides contributing to the overall Indo-Bhutan relationship, would also help in implementation of the 10th Plan as well as development of the mega hydro power projects.

"In terms of the Tenth Plan and the mega power projects, an official level talk between the two governments was held earlier this week in India to prepare the delegation for the state visit," he said.