New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brunei on Tuesday, marking the first-ever visit to the Southeast Asian nation by an Indian Prime Minister. Modi’s arrival in Bandar Seri Begawan was met with a ceremonial welcome, with the Prime Minister warmly received by Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.
The visit is significant as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the importance of the visit on social media, noting the special occasion of the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM.
Ahead of his departure for this two-nation tour, Modi expressed optimism about strengthening India’s ties with Brunei and Singapore. “As we celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations, I look forward to my meetings with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other esteemed members of the Royal family to elevate our historical relationship,” Modi said.
Following his visit to Brunei, Modi will travel to Singapore on September 4. He plans to meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, as well as leaders from Singapore’s business community. Modi aims to enhance the strategic partnership with Singapore, focusing on advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development.
Modi emphasised that both Brunei and Singapore are key to India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. Diplomatic relations between India and Brunei were established on May 10, 1984. The Indian Mission in Brunei was set up on May 18, 1993, while Brunei Darussalam’s resident High Commission in India was established on August 12, 1992. The countries share close ties through their mutual memberships in various international organizations, including the UN, NAM, Commonwealth, and ASEAN.
