BRUNEI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new chancery premises of the High Commission of India in Brunei today. Modi arrived in Brunei on the first-leg of his two-nation tour this morning. He will go to Singapore from Brunei.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the chancery complex embodies a “profound sense of Indianness”. It integrates traditional motifs and tree plantations. It blends classic and contemporary elements.
The PM also interacted with members of the Indian community who were present at the inauguration. He appreciated their contribution as a living bridge between the two countries and strengthening bilateral ties. Indians started arriving in Brunei with the discovery of oil in 1920s. Currently, approximately 14,000 Indians are residing there.
Modi arrived at Bandar Seri Begawan on an official visit at the invitation of the ruler, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome and warmly received by Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei.
This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian PM to Brunei. The historic visit of Modi coincides with the 40th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei. Brunei is an important partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. Earlier, while departing from New Delhi, Modi said he was looking forward to strong ties between the countries, especially in boosting commercial and cultural linkages.
The PM also said he looks forward to discussions on deepening strategic partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalisation and sustainable development.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in an interview with ‘The Straits Times’ a Singapore newspaper, described the relations saying: “Beyond the bilateral ties, there is also an issue of closer collaboration in a volatile and uncertain world.”
“Ours is a partnership based on a high degree of trust and understanding. The time is ripe to move to the next level of our ties, reflecting current realities in both countries, as well as the state of the world,” he said.