Ladies and Gentlemen,
I express my heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty and the entire royal family for the warm welcome and hospitality. This is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. However, with the closeness and warmth I have received here, I am reminded every moment of the centuries old ties between our countries.
Your Majesty,
Your Majesty, this year marks the 40th anniversary of Brunei’s independence. Under your leadership, Brunei has made progress with the confluence of tradition and continuity. Your vision for Brunei – “Wawasan 2035” is praiseworthy. On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I convey my best wishes to you and the people of Brunei.
Friends,
India and Brunei have deep historical and cultural ties. This year, we are celebrating 40th anniversary of our diplomatic ties. On this occassion, we have decided to commemorate our relations as Enhanced Partnership.
We had comprehensive talks on various aspects of our ties to give a strategic direction to our partnership. We are committed to strengthening our cooperation in economic, scientific, and strategic sectors. We have decided to strengthen our cooperation in FinTech and Cyber Security along with Agri-industry, pharmaceutical and health sectors.
Under energy sector, we discussed the potential for long term cooperation in LNG. To strengthen our defence cooperation, we held constructive dialogue on possibilities of cooperation in defence industry, training and capacity building. To strengthen our cooperation in Space sector, we have agreed on cooperation in satellite development, remote sensing, and training. To enhance connectivity between the two countries, direct flights will be commenced soon.
Friends,
Our people-to-people ties are the foundation of our relationship. I am happy that the Indian community in Brunei is making positive contributions to Brunei’s economy and society. With the inauguration of a new chancery of the High Commission of India yesterday, Indian community has found a permanent address in Brunei. We are grateful to His Majesty and his government for the welfare of Indian community in Brunei.
Friends,
Brunei is an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. India has always given priority to ASEAN Centrality and will continue to do so. We support freedom of navigation and overflight under interational laws like UNCLOS.
We agree that a Code of Conduct should be finalized in this region. We support the policy of development, and not expansionism.
Your Majesty,
We are grateful for your commitment to relations with India. Today a new chapter has been added to our historical ties. Once again, my deepest gratitude for the respect shown to me. I pray for the good health and prosperity of His Majesty, members of the royal family, and the people of Brunei.
Thank you very much.
