Brunei, India elevate bilateral relations

Brunei and India have agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to an “Enhanced Partnership” after recent talks between Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brunei's capital Bandar Seri Begawan.

A joint statement adopted after their talks highlighted that the two leaders acknowledged the excellent progress over the years in bilateral relations, and reaffirmed their commitments to further strengthening, deepening, and enhancing the partnership in all areas of mutual interest.

They also pledged to maintain peace, stability, maritime safety and security, as well as respect freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce, consistent with international law.

During the talks, the two leaders discussed enhancing cooperation across various domains, including defence, trade and investment, food security, education, energy, space, health care, culture, and people-to-people exchange. They reached consensus on working together in the areas of ICT, financial technology, cyber security, new and emerging technologies, and renewables.

The leaders condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations, and called upon states to repudiate it. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation at the UN, and other multilateral forums to combat terrorism, according to the joint statement.

The Sultan and the PM reiterated their commitment to working closely together in mutually beneficial areas to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Additionally, they agreed on the urgent need to address climate change, and enhance efforts in mitigating the adverse impacts from this rising challenge in accordance with international climate objectives such as the Paris Agreement.

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah appreciated India’s support for Brunei’s efforts in hosting the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change.