Prime Minister Modi engaged in Important discussions with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei today at the Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s official residence in Bandar Seri Begawan. This meeting, part of Prime Minister Modi’s ongoing Southeast Asian tour, marks a historic milestone as it represents the first visit by an Indian head of the state to Brunei, a nation with which India has shared the diplomatic relations for four decades.
In a tweet of the following the meeting, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the talks were extensive and covered as of various aspects aimed at strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The discussions were focused on deepening the cooperation in a several key areas, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange, reflecting the the growing partnership between India and Brunei.
The day’s agenda also included that delegation-level talks and the signing and the exchange of memoranda between the two governments, which are expected to them further solidify the strategic and economic ties between India and Brunei. These agreements to signify a commitment to enhancing the collaboration and addressing mutual interests, paving the way for to increased bilateral engagement.
Following to the meeting, Prime Minister Modi will continue as his tour with a departure to Singapore. In Singapore, he is scheduled to meet with the Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Additionally, he will engage with the business leaders to discuss opportunities for economic collaboration and investment. The visit will also include a dinner hosted by Prime Minister Wong, providing a platform for further dialogue and relationship-building.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi visited the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, a prominent landmark in Bandar Seri Begawan. The mosque, renowned for its stunning architecture and historical importance, was constructed by Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, and its remains a symbol of Brunei’s rich cultural heritage. Throughout of his visit, Prime Minister Modi was greeted by members of the Indian community residing in Brunei, who are gathered to welcome him and express their appreciation for the visit.
On Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India in Brunei. This is new facility represents a important upgrade and underscores of India’s commitment to enhancing its diplomatic presence in Brunei. The inauguration of the Chancery marks a new chapter in India-Brunei relations, reflecting the growing importance of bilateral ties and the increasing the level of engagement between the two nations.
This visit by the Prime Minister Modi is a significant step in Improving diplomatic relations and fostering greater cooperation between India and Brunei. The historic nature of the visit underscores the mutual interest in strengthening ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration. The discussions and agreements reached Throughout of this visit are expected to lay a strong foundation for future cooperation and further deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The Prime Minister’s tour of Southeast Asia, including his visit to Brunei and subsequent trip to Singapore, highlights India’s strategic focus on enhancing relations with key partners in the region. The engagements and interactions planned during this tour are set to contribute to the broader objective of strengthening India’s role and presence in Southeast Asia, while also fostering closer ties with individual countries in the region.
As Prime Minister Modi concludes his visit to Brunei and prepares for his next stop in Singapore, the outcomes of these meetings and interactions will likely have a lasting impact on the bilateral relationships and future cooperation between India and these Southeast Asian nations. The visit is a testament to the growing diplomatic and economic ties between India and Brunei, and it sets the stage for continued collaboration and partnership in the years to come.
Prime Minister Modi remarks during meeting with Brunei Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
I extend my sincere thanks to you and the entire Royal Family for the gracious hospitality and warm reception you have provided. On behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India, I also extend heartfelt congratulations to you and the people of Brunei as you celebrate the 40th anniversary of your nation’s independence.
Our nations share a profound cultural connection that has endured for centuries. This rich cultural heritage forms the bedrock of our enduring friendship. Under your esteemed leadership, our bilateral relations have grown increasingly robust, strengthening our partnership with each passing day.
The visit you made to India as the Chief Guest at our Republic Day celebrations in 2018 remains a cherished memory for the Indian people. It was a significant occasion that highlighted the deep bond between our nations and the mutual respect we hold for each other. I am delighted to have the opportunity to visit Brunei at the onset of my third term in office. This visit allows us to explore and discuss the future of our partnership, which is particularly significant as we mark the 40th anniversary of our diplomatic relationship this year.
The timing of this visit is particularly auspicious. As we celebrate four decades of diplomatic ties, it is clear that Brunei’s role as a crucial partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision promises a bright and promising future for our collaboration. Our shared values and strategic interests continue to bind us together, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and mutual prosperity.
In reflecting on our relationship, it is evident that the cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions of our partnership are deeply intertwined. The continued growth of our bilateral ties is a testament to the strength of our historical connections and the shared vision we have for a prosperous future. I look forward to building on these foundations and advancing our mutual interests in the years ahead.
Thank you once again for your exceptional hospitality and for the opportunity to strengthen the ties between our two nations. It is an honor to be here and to reaffirm our commitment to deepening our partnership.