This was the first bilateral visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. Feeling centuries-old ties between Brunei and India, PM Narendra Modi applauded Brunei’s leadership for progress with an important confluence of tradition, and continuity and commended its vision “Wawasan 2035” aiming to make Brunei Darussalam into a widely recognized nation across the world.  

India and Brunei share deep historical and cultural ties. This year is a celebration of the fortieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Both countries have decided to elevate relations to ‘Enhanced Partnership’ by having extensive discussions on all aspects to give strategic direction to the partnership. PM Modi shares: “We are committed to strengthening our cooperation in economic, scientific and strategic areas. We have decided to focus on mutual cooperation in agro-industry, pharma and health as well as FinTech and cyber security.” 

“In the energy sector, we discussed the possibilities of long-term cooperation in LNG. To enhance cooperation in the defense sector, we positively considered the possibilities of defense industry, training and capacity building. To strengthen our cooperation in the field of space, we agreed on satellite development, remote sensing and training. Soon, direct flights will be started for connectivity between the two countries,” he said. 

“Our people-to-people relations are the foundation of our partnership. I am happy that the Indian community is making a positive contribution to the economy and society of Brunei. With the inauguration of the Indian Embassy, the Indian community has got a permanent address. We are grateful to His Majesty and his government for looking after the welfare and interests of the Indian community,” he added. 

“Brunei has been an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. India has always given priority to ASEAN centrality and will continue to do so. We support freedom of navigation and over-flights under international laws like UNCLOS. We agree that a code of conduct should be agreed upon in this region. We support the policy of development, not expansionism,” he further said. 

On this occasion, PM Modi inaugurated the new Chancery premises of the High Commission of India in Brunei and interacted with the Indian community members. PM Modi also appreciated their contribution to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Brunei. 

India and Brunei enjoy a friendly relationship which is marked by mutual respect and understanding on bilateral and multilateral issues. The two countries are linked by history, culture and tradition spanning a millennium. 

PM Modi had arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan on an official and historic visit at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. This was the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei, which coincided with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. 
 
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome and warmly received by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei. On reaching Brunei Darussalam, PM Modi tweeted: “Looking forward to a strong relationship between our countries, especially in enhancing commercial and cultural ties. I am grateful to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for welcoming me at the airport.”  

Illustrative, 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 healthcare and education sectors has been well acknowledged. 
 
From Brunei, PM Modi has arrived at Singapore for two-day meet, where he is to meet President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. The aim here is to strengthen strategic ties under new leadership. He will also meet with leaders of Singapore’s vibrant business community. These meetings are to deepen the strategic partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalization and sustainable development. PM Modi was greeted by the Indian diaspora with traditional dance performances. Mr Modi also tried his hand at playing the “dhol” amid religious chants. It is his fifth official trip to Singapore.