India and Brunei have elevated their bilateral relationship to an "Enhanced Partnership" following a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, September 4. The visit marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Brunei.

During the visit, PM Modi held talks with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, focusing on defence, trade, energy, and regional and global issues of mutual interest. The Sultan and his close family members welcomed PM Modi at the Istana Nurul Iman, the Sultan’s official residence, for the bilateral discussions.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude to you and the entire Royal Family for your kind words, warm welcome and hospitality,” Prime Minister Modi said during the visit.

Modi noted that Brunei is celebrating its 40th year of independence this year and praised Sultan Bolkiah’s leadership and the vision of Wawasan 2035, which aims to guide Brunei’s development.

“Under your leadership, Brunei has progressed with an important confluence of tradition and continuity. Your vision of Wawasan 2035 for Brunei is commendable,” Modi stated, extending best wishes from the people of India.

The Indian Prime Minister highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries, noting that this year marks the 40th anniversary of their political relations. He announced that the two nations have agreed to elevate their relations to the status of Enhanced Partnership.

PM Modi emphasised the commitment of both nations to strengthen cooperation in economic, scientific, and strategic fields. The discussions focused on cooperation in agriculture, industry, pharma, and health, as well as technology and cyber security. They also explored long-term collaboration in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and potential opportunities in defence industry training and capacity building. In the field of space, they agreed on satellite development, remote sensing, and training.

The Prime Minister also announced that direct flights between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai will soon be established, enhancing connectivity and people-to-people relations between the two countries.

A joint statement later welcomed the planned direct flight connectivity, which is expected to strengthen people-to-people linkages and boost trade and tourism activities between India and Brunei.

PM Modi emphasised Brunei’s importance as a partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision, highlighting the country’s commitment to ASEAN peace and freedom of navigation under international laws such as UNCLOS.

The two leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, calling upon states to repudiate it and ensuring that no country harbours terrorists. They agreed to work together at the United Nations and other multilateral forums to combat terrorism and transnational organised crime.

After concluding his visit to Brunei, Prime Minister Modi departed for Singapore.

Image source: PTI