India and Brunei agreed to deepen cooperation in defence, space, and people-to-people relations during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Southeast Asian nation, the first-ever by an Indian prime minister.
The visit, which coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, marked a significant step in strengthening their bilateral relationship.
PM Modi and Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah held a bilateral meeting where they discussed a wide range of issues, including defence, trade, investment, and regional security.
During their meeting, the leaders signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in the operation of Telemetry, Tracking and Telecommand Station for Satellite and Launch Vehicles. Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for Brunei’s continued hosting of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s station, which has contributed to India’s space efforts.
In a move to boost connectivity, both countries welcomed the upcoming launch of a direct flight between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai. This development is expected to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
“The two leaders witnessed the signing and exchange of an MoU on Cooperation in the operation of Telemetry, Tracking and Telecommand Station for Satellite and Launch Vehicles by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Brunei’s Minister of Transport and Infocommunications H.E. Pengiran Dato Shamhary Pengiran Dato Mustapha. They welcomed the upcoming commencement of direct flight connection between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai. A Joint Statement was adopted after the talks,” MEA stated in a press release.
The leaders also agreed to elevate bilateral relations to an “Enhanced Partnership,” covering a wide range of areas including trade, investment, food security, education, energy, health, and culture. They emphasized the need to address climate change and agreed to explore collaboration in ICT, fintech, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.
Prime Minister and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah also exchanged views on regional and global issues.
“Both leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called upon states to repudiate it,” the statement said.
They underlined that no country should allow territory under their control to be used for terrorism; no country should harbour terrorists and resolved to work together to bring perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice.
Recognizing terrorism and transnational organized crime linkages, both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in this regard.
Both sides agreed on the importance of pursuing a policy of development rather than expansionism in Southeast Asia. They emphasized the need for a code of conduct for all parties in the South China Sea, ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight, and stressed the importance of adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
On the defence front, both countries acknowledged the importance of enhancing cooperation through regular exchanges, training programs, and joint exercises. They also committed to strengthening cooperation in various regional and multilateral forums, including ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations and the United Nations.
The visit saw both leaders condemning terrorism in all its forms and calling for increased cooperation to combat this global threat. They also reiterated their commitment to a rules-based international system for ensuring peace and development.
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah appreciated India’s support for Brunei’s efforts in hosting the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change, while also welcoming the training and scholarship offers provided by India under various programs.
(Inputs from ANI)