Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brunei, marking the first leg of his two-nation visit, and received a ceremonial welcome.
In a special gesture, Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah personally welcomed PM Modi to Brunei Darussalam. This visit is particularly significant as it is the first time an Indian Prime Minister has made a bilateral visit to Brunei.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Landed in Brunei Darussalam. Looking forward to strong ties between our nations, especially in boosting commercial and cultural linkages. I thank Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for welcoming me at the airport.”
“PM Narendra Modi lands in Brunei to a ceremonial reception. He was warmly welcomed by Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. This historic visit is especially noteworthy as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on X.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at a hotel in Brunei's capital Bandar Seri Begawan where he is staying during his visit. Members of the Indian diaspora welcome him here.
(Video: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/Iyb3LPbNhX
— ANI (@ANI) September 3, 2024
In his departure statement, PM Modi expressed his anticipation for meetings with Brunei’s ruler, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, and other Royal family members, aiming to elevate the longstanding bilateral relationship. Following his visit to Brunei, PM Modi will continue to Singapore on September 4.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated that the focus of his visit to both countries would be on strengthening bilateral relations.
He added, “During the next two days, I will visit Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. My engagements in these nations will concentrate on further deepening India’s ties with them. As India and Brunei Darussalam celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations, I look forward to meeting His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. In Singapore, I will hold discussions with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. We are eager to strengthen cooperation in key sectors.”