On Tuesday, September 3, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a landmark visit to Brunei, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations. This historic visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship. Upon his arrival in Brunei, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with a warm welcome by Brunei’s Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. This reception set the tone for a visit that promises to deepen the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
PM Modi’s itinerary included a high-profile meeting on Wednesday, September 4, with Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah at the Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s official residence and the seat of the Brunei government. The discussions between the two leaders covered a wide range of topics, with a focus on expanding trade ties, strengthening commercial linkages, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. These talks are expected to pave the way for closer cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade and investment, and energy.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi expressed his satisfaction with the discussions, stating, “Delighted to meet His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. Our talks were wide-ranging and included ways to cement bilateral ties between our nations further. We are going to further expand trade ties, commercial linkages, and people-to-people exchanges.” The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the significance of the visit, noting that Brunei is a key partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and its vision for the Indo-Pacific region. The MEA emphasized the historical and cultural ties that bind the two nations, which span over a millennium.
Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India in Bandar Seri Begawan during his visit. This new facility is expected to serve as a hub for strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations between the two countries. Modi took the opportunity to meet with members of the Indian community in Brunei, who welcomed him with enthusiasm. The Indian diaspora in Brunei, which has contributed significantly to the country’s development, views the visit as a momentous occasion. Amitabh Dimri, the Indian High Commissioner to Brunei, underscored the importance of Modi’s visit. “In our four decades of diplomatic relationship, this is the first bilateral official visit by the Prime Minister of India to Brunei Darussalam. It is a historic moment in our bilateral relationship and also for the Indian community in Brunei Darussalam that high-level bilateral engagement between Prime Minister Shri Modi and His Majesty the King is going to take place,” Dimri stated.
The visit is expected to culminate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering collaboration in key areas of mutual interest. A joint statement from the two nations is anticipated, which will take stock of the current state of bilateral relations and outline future areas of cooperation. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brunei, part of a broader two-nation tour, underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Southeast Asian nations as part of its strategic ‘Act East’ Policy. As India and Brunei celebrate four decades of friendship and cooperation, this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in their diplomatic relationship, with both nations poised to take their partnership to greater heights.
