After his visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off for a three-day visit to Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. Before the trip, he posted on Instagram that the focus will be on strengthening relations between India and these countries. PM Modi will visit Brunei Darussalam at the invitation of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
This visit marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei. It is the first time an Indian Prime Minister is visiting Brunei. After Brunei, PM Modi will travel to Singapore at the invitation of Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The visit is scheduled from September 4 to 5.
What Did PM Modi Say About the Visits?
Before leaving, PM Modi tweeted, “In the next two days, I will visit Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. During these visits, the focus will be on strengthening India’s relations with these countries. The diplomatic relations between India and Brunei Darussalam have completed 40 proud years. I look forward to meeting His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.”
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PM Modi also mentioned, “In Singapore, I will talk with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. We hope to strengthen relations in key areas.” Brunei is an important partner in India’s “Act East” policy and Indo-Pacific vision. This visit will enhance cooperation in defense, trade and investment, energy, space technology, health, capacity building, and cultural exchange.
What Did the Foreign Ministry Say About the Visit?
On PM Modi’s visit to Brunei, Foreign Ministry Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar said, “The Prime Minister will discuss all aspects of bilateral relations and cooperation with Brunei. We have very warm and friendly relations with Brunei. There are about 14,000 Indians in Brunei, including doctors and teachers, who have earned goodwill and respect for their contributions to Brunei’s economy and society. Brunei played an important role as our country coordinator in ASEAN from 2012 to 2015 and will continue to play a key role in our future engagement with ASEAN.”
