Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to Brunei, the first-ever by an Indian prime minister, marks a significant milestone in the 40-year-long diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
The visit has attracted considerable attention in Brunei, with local media prominently covering PM Modi’s arrival. The Borneo Bulletin, one of Brunei’s leading newspapers, featured a front-page photograph of PM Modi being warmly welcomed by Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah at the Brunei International Airport, underscoring the importance of this historic event.
Upon his arrival on Tuesday, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from the Crown Prince. Expressing his eagerness to strengthen bilateral ties, the Prime Minister emphasized the potential for deepening commercial and cultural connections between India and Brunei.
Key highlights of PM Modi’s visit include high-level delegation talks with Bruneian leaders and the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of bilateral issues and open up new avenues for cooperation.
As part of his itinerary, PM Modi visited the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, a gesture that highlights the shared cultural and religious diversity of both nations. The Borneo Bulletin featured coverage of this visit, including images of PM Modi seated alongside Brunei’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Health Minister, as well as his warm reception by members of the Indian community at the mosque, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.
In a significant diplomatic gesture, PM Modi inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India in the Bruneian capital. The chancery complex incorporates elements of Indian architecture with modern design.
PM Modi also engaged with members of the Indian community in Brunei, acknowledging their pivotal role as a “living bridge” between India and Brunei. With approximately 14,000 Indians residing in Brunei, their contributions, particularly in the healthcare and education sectors, have been widely recognized and appreciated.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has underscored Brunei’s importance as a key partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. The two countries enjoy a friendly relationship, characterized by mutual respect and understanding on both bilateral and multilateral issues, with historical, cultural, and traditional ties that span a millennium.
PM Modi’s visit to Brunei is viewed as a testament to India’s commitment to strengthening its diplomatic and economic relationships in Southeast Asia, as well as to advancing its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
Following his visit to Brunei, PM Modi is set to travel to Singapore, continuing his two-nation tour aimed at deepening India’s engagement with the region.
(Inputs from ANI)