In a significant milestone marking 40 years of diplomatic relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a historic meeting with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei on September 4, 2024, at the Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan. The visit, the first by an Indian Head of Government to Brunei, underscored the growing importance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations, as both leaders expressed a shared commitment to deepening their ties across various domains.
Strengthening the Act East Policy
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brunei is a strategic move within India’s broader ‘Act East Policy,’ which has reached its 10th year. Upon his arrival, Modi was warmly welcomed by Sultan Bolkiah and his close family members, reflecting the strong personal rapport between the two leaders. In his opening remarks, Modi emphasized the significance of the visit, stating, “Brunei is an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. We respect each others’ sentiments and I trust that my visit to Brunei and our discussions will give a strategic direction to our bilateral relations.”
This visit not only reaffirms India’s commitment to its Act East Policy but also positions Brunei as a key partner in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy. The elevation of bilateral ties to an ‘Enhanced Partnership’ symbolizes a new phase in India-Brunei relations, with a focus on mutual cooperation and shared strategic interests.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
The discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Sultan Bolkiah spanned a wide array of topics, including defense, trade and investment, food security, education, energy, space technology, health, capacity building, and cultural exchanges. The leaders agreed to explore collaborations in emerging fields such as information and communication technology (ICT), financial technology (fintech), cybersecurity, new and renewable energy, and space exploration.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the operation of Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand Station for Satellite and Launch Vehicles. This MoU, signed by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Brunei’s Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Shamhary Pengiran Dato Mustapha, further cements Brunei’s role in supporting India’s space ambitions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Modi expressed deep appreciation for Brunei’s continued support in hosting the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand (TTC) Station, acknowledging its critical contribution to India’s space endeavors.
Enhancing Economic and Cultural Ties
The leaders also discussed enhancing bilateral trade and economic ties, focusing on sectors such as technology, finance, manufacturing, and agriculture. Both leaders recognized the importance of food security and agreed to bolster cooperation in agriculture and the food supply chain through the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a new direct flight connection between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, set to commence soon. This new route is expected to significantly boost people-to-people exchanges, trade, and tourism between the two nations, further strengthening the cultural and economic ties that have existed for centuries.
Joint Statement and Regional Cooperation
A Joint Statement was issued following the talks, highlighting the shared vision of India and Brunei to work closely together on regional and global issues. Both leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms and called for a united effort to combat the menace. The two leaders echoed their pledge to the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and underlined the importance of following international law and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
The statement also emphasized the need for enhanced maritime cooperation, with both leaders expressing satisfaction at the regular port calls by naval vessels from both countries. They agreed to expand defence cooperation through joint exercises, training programs, and the exchange of visits between naval and coast guard ships.
Looking Ahead
The elevation of ties to an Enhanced Partnership reflects the mutual respect and understanding that characterize the relationship between the two countries. The discussions and agreements reached during this visit are expected to provide a strategic direction to India-Brunei relations, particularly in the context of India’s Act East Policy and its vision for the Indo-Pacific.
In a gesture of goodwill, Sultan Bolkiah hosted an official lunch in honour of Prime Minister Modi, further underscoring the warmth and friendship that underpin India-Brunei relations. Modi invited Sultan Bolkiah to visit India, signalling the potential for further high-level engagements in the future.
As both nations look ahead, the Enhanced Partnership will serve as a robust framework for deepening cooperation across multiple sectors, from defence and space technology to trade, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. This historic visit not only reaffirms the strength of India-Brunei relations but also sets the stage for a more dynamic and prosperous partnership in the years to come.