Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Brunei, a geographically small country located in South East Asia. He is on a two-day visit to Brunei and Singapore and will be heading to Singapore late in the evening today after concluding bilateral talks. He will also will meet the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah and have dinner at his official place.
The first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. PM Modi will hold the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei.
On the first day of visit to Brunei, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome. He inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India, in Brunei's capital Bandar Seri Begawan and also visited Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan.
PM Modi also interacted with the Indian community members who were present at the inauguration. He appreciated their contribution as a living bridge between the two countries and how it helped in strengthening bilateral ties. The first phase of Indians arriving in Brunei started with the discovery of oil in the 1920s.
According to an official statement by a Ministry of External Affairs, Brunei is an important partner in India's 'Act East' Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision.
India and Brunei maintain a friendly relationship characterised by mutual respect and understanding on both bilateral and multilateral matters. Their connection is deeply rooted in a shared history, culture, and traditions that have developed over a thousand years.
During the visit, the Prime Minister will engage in bilateral discussions on all aspects of bilateral relations and cooperation with Brunei leadership and explore new areas of collaboration.
PM Modi's Singapore Visit
PM Modi, ahead of his visit, has said that the discussions will deepen India-Singapore Strategic Partnership. "I look forward to my discussions to deepen our Strategic Partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development," PM Modi said.
He also stated that both Brunei and Singapore as important partners in India's Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Vision.