India and Brunei Darussalam Forge Stronger Ties in Historic Bilateral Visit.
New Delhi:
In a landmark visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his first official trip to Brunei Darussalam, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Southeast Asian nation. The visit, which took place from September 3-4, 2024, was at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah.
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei Darussalam. The visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship and ongoing collaboration between the two countries.
During their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation across a broad spectrum of areas, including defence, connectivity, trade, energy, space, ICT, health, education, and cultural exchanges. They also agreed to strengthen mechanisms for regular dialogue and joint working groups.
Notably, the leaders agreed to expand trade and economic ties and explore mutual strengths in technology, finance, and manufacturing. They underscored the importance of food security and pledged to enhance cooperation in agriculture and the food supply chain.
Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for Brunei’s hosting of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Telemetry Tracking and Telecommand Station and welcomed the renewed Memorandum of Understanding for continued space collaboration. Both leaders also committed to enhancing defence and maritime cooperation and welcomed the planned direct flight connectivity between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, which aims to boost trade and tourism.
Furthermore, the leaders agreed to promote greater youth exchanges and appreciated Brunei’s participation in various Indian training and scholarship programs. They reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability, peace, and multilateral cooperation, emphasizing the need to address climate change and enhance efforts in line with international agreements.
Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah for a visit to India, reflecting the strengthened ties and mutual respect between the two nations.
