Brunei (Commonwealth Union)_ On September 3, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a groundbreaking visit to Brunei Darussalam, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has undertaken a bilateral visit to this Southeast Asian nation. This visit not only highlights a significant milestone in India-Brunei relations but also celebrates four decades of diplomatic relationship between the two countries. The visit, initiated at the invitation of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, underscores the longstanding and robust relationship between India and Brunei. The Sultan, who is the second-longest reigning monarch globally, has previously visited India on four occasions, reflecting the deep-rooted ties between the two Commonwealth nations.
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PM Narendra Modi in Brunei
The visit began with PM Modi’s arrival at Bandar Seri Begawan Airport, where he was received with a warm welcome by Brunei’s Crown Prince Haji AlMuhtadee Billah. PM Modi’s visit also included cultural and diplomatic engagement, notably a visit to the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, one of Brunei’s most renowned landmarks. This visit also coincided with the inauguration of the new Chancery of the Indian High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan, a significant step in strengthening India’s diplomatic presence in Brunei. Additionally, the presence of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval at the inauguration further underscored the importance of the visit.
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Bilateral discussions
PM Narendra Modi’s visit included a highly anticipated meeting with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on September 4, 2024, at the iconic Istana Nurul Iman Palace. This historic engagement aimed to further enhance bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation. The discussions between the two leaders covered a broad spectrum of issues, including defense, connectivity, trade, investment, energy with a particular focus on renewables, space, information and communication technology (ICT), health, pharmaceuticals, education, and cultural exchanges.
A milestone in the India-Brunei relationship
Alok Amitabh Dimri, the Indian High Commissioner to Brunei, emphasized the significance of this visit, describing it as a milestone in the diplomatic history of both the Commonwealth nations. He highlighted that this is the first official bilateral visit by an Indian PM to Brunei in forty years, marking a historic moment for the India-Brunei relationship. Dimri also noted the rich cultural and historical connections between the two countries and expressed optimism about the outcomes of the visit, including the anticipated joint statement and several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering collaboration.
Indo-Pacific context and areas of collaboration
In light of the evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly with China’s assertive stance in the Indo-Pacific region, PM Modi underscored India’s commitment to development over expansionism. He stated that this visit comes amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, underscoring the strategic importance of the India-Brunei partnership in the broader Indo-Pacific context. The bilateral discussions also touched upon the importance of expanding trade and economic ties. Both leaders agreed to leverage their respective strengths in technology, finance, manufacturing, and processing to explore complementaryities that could benefit both nations. They also stressed the need for regular exchanges through key platforms such as the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) and other relevant forums. Additionally, food security emerged as a critical area of focus, with both countries agreeing to enhance cooperation in agriculture and the food supply chain through shared knowledge and best practices.
PM Modi meets the Indian diaspora
During his stay, PM Modi interacted with the local officials, scholars, and the Indian community residing in Brunei. With approximately 14,000 Indians in Brunei, their contributions to the healthcare and education sectors were acknowledged as pivotal in fostering strong ties between the two nations. PM Narendra Modi described the Indian community in Brunei as a living bridge between India and Brunei, highlighting their role in enhancing bilateral relations.
Conclusion
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized Brunei’s role as a key partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. The two Commonwealth countries share a relationship characterized by mutual respect and understanding on both bilateral and multilateral issues, underpinned by historical, cultural, and traditional ties. As PM Modi concludes his visit to Brunei and heads to Singapore. The significance of this trip cannot be overstated, as it represents a testament to India’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relationships in Southeast Asia and advancing its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit not only celebrates the 40-year diplomatic milestone but also sets the stage for future collaboration and partnership between India and Brunei.
