Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on Wednesday, emphasizing Brunei’s crucial role in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. This meeting, part of PM Modi’s first-ever bilateral visit to Brunei by an Indian Prime Minister, coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

During the talks, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality the Sultan and the Royal Family extended.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude to you and the entire Royal Family for your kind words, warm welcome and hospitality. I convey my greetings to you and the people of Brunei on the 40th anniversary of Independence, on behalf of 140 crore Indians,” PM Modi said in his remarks.

PM Modi expressed his satisfaction at visiting Brunei at the beginning of his third term as Prime Minister, viewing it as an opportunity to discuss the future of bilateral relations.

“Brunei being an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision is a guarantee of a bright future for us. We respect each other’s sentiments. I firmly believe that with my visit and our discussions will give a strategic direction to our ties for the time ahead,” he further added.

The Ministry of External Affairs reported that the leaders held productive discussions and welcomed the elevation of bilateral ties to an Enhanced Partnership. They reviewed relations in various areas including defense, trade, investment, energy, space technology, health, pharmaceuticals, capacity building, culture, and people-to-people ties. Regional and global issues of mutual interest were also discussed.

This visit marks a significant milestone in India-Brunei relations, being the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation. PM Modi arrived in Brunei on Tuesday and was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah at the airport.

(Inputs from ANI)