On September 4, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a landmark visit to Brunei, marking the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Head of Government to the Southeast Asian nation. The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei took place at Istana Nurul Iman, the royal palace in Bandar Seri Begawan, where Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by the Sultan.
Enhancing Bilateral Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brunei underscores India’s strong commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Southeast Asian nations as part of its ‘Act East Policy,’ now celebrating its 10th year. During the meeting, the two leaders elevated their bilateral relationship to an “Enhanced Partnership,” a significant milestone that reflects both nations’ desire to broaden their cooperation across various sectors.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The bilateral talks between Prime Minister Modi and Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah covered a wide array of topics including defense, trade and investment, food security, education, energy, and space technology. Both leaders recognized the importance of expanding collaboration in emerging fields such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT), fintech, cyber security, and renewable energy. The discussions also explored ways to strengthen capacity-building initiatives, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people connections.
Regional and Global Issues
In addition to bilateral matters, Prime Minister Modi and His Majesty shared views on pressing regional and global issues. Both leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms, calling for collective efforts by all states to repudiate it. The dialogue emphasized the importance of working closely within the framework of the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to address shared challenges and promote peace and stability in the region.
Signing of Key Agreements
A key highlight of the visit was the signing and exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the operation of Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand Stations for Satellites and Launch Vehicles. This agreement, signed by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Brunei’s Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, H.E. Pengiran Dato Shamhary Pengiran Dato Mustapha, marks a significant step forward in space cooperation between the two nations.
Another significant development is the upcoming launch of direct flights between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, a move that is expected to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between India and Brunei.
Strengthening ASEAN-India Relations
The leaders reiterated their commitment to furthering the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. His Majesty expressed appreciation for India’s support of Brunei’s efforts in hosting the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change, highlighting the shared commitment to addressing climate challenges in the region.
Looking Forward
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brunei is poised to significantly enhance the bilateral ties between the two countries. By inviting Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah to visit India, Prime Minister Modi has opened the door for further strengthening of relations in the future. This historic visit not only marks a new chapter in India-Brunei relations but also reinforces India’s broader vision for its ‘Act East Policy’ and its strategic engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.
As the visit concludes, it leaves a lasting impact on the diplomatic landscape, promising stronger collaboration and a brighter future for both nations in their shared pursuit of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in the region.