Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Bandar Seri Begawan this afternoon on the first leg of his two- nation visit to Brunei and Singapore. Upon arrival, Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome and received by Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei, Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.
This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India, in Bandar Seri Begawan a short while ago. When he reached the hotel, the Indian community cheered and welcomed him.
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. The two countries are linked by history, culture and tradition spanning a millennium.
Earlier in his departure statement, Mr. Modi expressed confidence that his visit to Brunei and Singapore will further strengthen India’s partnership with the two countries and the larger ASEAN region. He said, both countries are important partners in India’s Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Vision. He said, as India and Brunei celebrate the 40 years of diplomatic relations, he is looking forward to his meetings with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other esteemed members of the Royal family.
Mr Modi will travel to Singapore tomorrow on the second leg of his visit. He added that he is looking 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. Mr Modi will also meet with leaders of Singapore’s vibrant business community. The Prime Minister said, he is looking forward to discussions to deepen the Strategic Partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development.
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