New Delhi: Beginning his visit on Tuesday to the tiny oil-rich Brunei in Southeast Asia to a warm welcome from the kingdom’s crown prince, in what is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian PM to Brunei, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was looking forward to strong ties with the sultanate.
Modi will hold talks with the ruler, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, on Wednesday, during which the two nations are expected to bolster ties in a wide range of areas, including defence, commerce, energy and culture.
Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to travel to Brunei on a bilateral visit in the 40 years after diplomatic relations were established, said he was looking forward to his meetings with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and other members of the royal family on Wednesday to take the historical relationship to new heights.
As a special gesture, Modi was received by Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah at the airport. From Brunei, Modi will travel to Singapore on Wednesday.
One of the major highlights is a visit by Modi to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque on Tuesday evening.
Modi inaugurated the new chancery of the Indian high commission in Brunei, and on the occasion lit a lamp and unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion. He also interacted with the Indian community members who were present at the inauguration and appreciated their contribution as a living bridge between the two countries and strengthening bilateral ties.
“The first phase of Indians arriving in Brunei started with the discovery of oil in the 1920s. Currently, approximately 14,000 Indians are residing in Brunei. The contribution of Indian doctors and teachers to the growth and development of Brunei’s health care and education sectors has been well acknowledged,” New Delhi said.
In the morning, in his departure statement, Modi said: “I am embarking on a first-ever bilateral visit to Brunei Darussalam. As we celebrate the 40 years of our diplomatic relations, I look forward to my meetings with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other esteemed members of the royal family to advance our historical relationship to new heights.”
With regard to the chancery, the MEA said it embodied a profound sense of Indianness, masterfully integrating traditional motifs and lush tree plantations. The use of elegant claddings and durable Kota stones further enhances its aesthetic appeal, harmoniously blending classic and contemporary elements. “The design not only pays homage to India’s rich cultural heritage but also creates a tranquil and inviting atmosphere,” it said.
Modi in his departure statement added: “From Brunei, I will travel to Singapore on September 4. I look forward to the opportunity to meet President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, senior minister Lee Hsien Loong and emeritus senior minister Goh Chok Tong. I will also meet with leaders of the Singapore’s vibrant business community. I look forward to my discussions to deepen our strategic partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalisation, and sustainable development."
He further said: “Both countries are important partners in our Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Vision. I am confident that my visits would further strengthen our partnership with Brunei, Singapore and the larger Asean region.”
