Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on Wednesday, engaging in comprehensive discussions aimed at deepening the bilateral relationship between India and Brunei as the two nations celebrate 40 years of diplomatic ties.
The talks were held at the Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence and palace of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
PM Modi underscored Brunei’s significance as a key partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. He emphasized the long-standing cultural ties that form the foundation of the India-Brunei friendship, saying, “Our cultural tradition is the basis of our friendship. Under your leadership, our ties have grown stronger day by day.”
PM Modi highlighted the importance of expanding trade, enhancing commercial linkages, and increasing people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
In a post on X, PM Modi said: “Delighted to meet His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. Our talks were wide ranging and included ways to further cement bilateral ties between our nations. We are going to further expand trade ties, commercial linkages and people-to-people exchanges.”
The Ministry of External Affairs said that Prime Minister Modi and Brunei Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah held productive discussions, with both leaders welcoming the elevation of bilateral ties to Enhanced Partnership.
They reviewed the status of cooperation in key areas such as defence, trade, investment, energy, space technology, health, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, they exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X: “Infusing fresh impetus to India-Brunei ties & to ‘Act East’ Policy. PM @narendramodi and H.M. Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei held productive discussions in Bandar Seri Begawan today. They welcomed the elevation of bilateral ties to Enhanced Partnership.”
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei marks the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation.
Following his meeting with the Sultan, PM Modi departed for Singapore, continuing his two-nation tour aimed at strengthening India’s engagement with the region.
(Inputs from ANI)
