New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a historic two-day bilateral visit to Brunei starting today, September 3. This visit is significant as it marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Brunei, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei. Following this, PM Modi will travel to Singapore on Wednesday at the invitation of Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
Strengthening Ties with Brunei
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Brunei is set to enhance the already strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. “In the next two days, I will visit Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. During all the programs in these countries, the focus will be on further strengthening relations with India,” Modi stated before his departure. He expressed his eagerness to meet His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and emphasized the importance of the 40-year-long diplomatic relationship between India and Brunei.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that this visit aims to bolster cooperation in various sectors, including maritime security and regional stability. India is keen on strengthening partnerships with Southeast Asian countries to counter the growing influence of China in the Indo-Pacific region. Brunei, with its maritime borders adjoining South China, also has disputes with China regarding the South China Sea, making this visit strategically significant.
Visit to Singapore
After concluding his visit to Brunei, Prime Minister Modi will head to Singapore. In Singapore, he will engage in discussions with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. The focus will be on reviewing the progress of the India-Singapore strategic partnership and exploring new avenues for cooperation in advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development.
A Vision for the Future
The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “The two leaders will review the progress of the India-Singapore strategic partnership and discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest.” Modi’s visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Southeast Asian nations and enhancing its role in the Indo-Pacific region.
This landmark tour is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation and stronger diplomatic relations between India, Brunei, and Singapore, marking a new chapter in India’s foreign policy.
