Thursday, March 30 2006 10:33 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Santiago (Chile): Chile has affirmed its support to India's candidature for a permanent seat in the expanded UN Security Council as the two countries discussed various issues, including reform of the world body.

Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma, during a two-day visit to the Latin American country ending Tuesday, called on Chilean President Michelle Bachlet, the first woman head of the State who assumed office on March 11.

Sharma also held talks with Chilean Acting Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Carlos Portales.

The two leaders discussed wide range of issues of mutual interest, which included bilateral matters like trade, scientific cooperation and Free Trade Agreement, a release issued by the Indian Embassy said.

They also discussed reform of the Security Council and Chile expressed its support to India's candidature as a permanent member of the world body.

Sharma also inaugurated a computer laboratory built by India at a cost of US$ 30,000 to the Republic of India School in Santiago.