PM Modi's Historic Visit to Brunei: A New Era in India-Brunei Relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Brunei marked a significant step in enhancing India-Brunei relations, with discussions covering FinTech, digital technology, renewable energy, and regional cooperation. PM Modi's visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties and strengthened the Act East policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brunei Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah discussed emerging areas of bilateral cooperation such as FinTech, digital technology, renewable energy, and digital payment systems, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary East, Ministry of External Affairs, stated on Wednesday. PM Modi's visit to Brunei was termed 'fruitful,' with the Sultan hosting discussions at the royal palace.

During their talks, PM Modi and the Sultan explored enhancing defense, trade, investment, space, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people relationships. Brunei plans to start direct flights to India from Bandar Seri Begawan to Chennai later this year. They also delved into ASEAN-related matters and regional and international issues, aiming to bolster India's Act East policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

In addition, PM Modi and the Sultan emphasized space cooperation, with India's telemetry tracking and command station in Brunei. The signing of an MoU aims to further this partnership. The visit included a tour of the iconic Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, showcasing its architectural and cultural significance. PM Modi concluded his visit, thanking Brunei for their hospitality, and departed for Singapore to continue strengthening regional ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)