Modi arrives in Brunei for Indo-Pacific outreach

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PM Modi reaches Brunei in key Indo-Pacific outreach

By Our Special Correspondent

New Delhi, September 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday arrived in Brunei in a significant bilateral visit. The Prime Minister inaugurated the new Chancery premises of the High Commission of India in Brunei.

Prime Minister also interacted with the Indian community members who were present at the inauguration. He 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.

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The contribution of Indian doctors and teachers to the growth and development of Brunei’s health care and education sectors has been well acknowledged.

“The chancery complex embodies 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,” said the PMO in a media statement.

The design not only pays homage to India’s rich cultural heritage but also creates a tranquil and inviting atmosphere, it added.

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Prime Minister arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan on an official visit today at the invitation of Sultan of Brunei Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei.

“The historic visit of Prime Minister coincides with the 40th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei,” added the PMO in the statement.

Upon arrival in Bandar Seri Begawan, Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome and warmly received by Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei.

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“Brunei is an important partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. India and Brunei enjoy a friendly relationship which is marked by mutual respect and understanding on bilateral and multilateral issues,” said the Ministry of External Affairs in a media statement.

India and Brunei are linked by history, culture and tradition spanning a millennium. “Today, 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,” the prime minister had said in a statement ahead of the visit to Brunei.

The prime minister will travel to Singapore on Wednesday. “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,” the prime minister said about his visit to Singapore.

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“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, digitalization, and sustainable development,” added the prime minister in his statement.

Brunei and Singapore are important partners in ‘Act East Policy’ and the Indo-Pacific Vision, said the prime minister. “I am confident that my visits would further strengthen our partnership with Brunei, Singapore and the larger ASEAN region,” he added.

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