Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

On Tuesday (Sep 3) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a 'historic' trip to Brunei. He became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the Southeast Asia nation for bilateral talks. 

Advertisment

This visit marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei.

Modi in Brunei

According to reports, the Indian Prime Minister received a warm welcome from Brunei's Crown Prince Haji AlMuhtadee Billah. He is scheduled to meet with Brunei's Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on Wednesday (Sep 4). The leaders are expected to engage in high-level bilateral discussions to enhance relations and explore new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.

Advertisment

Also read | PM Modi lands in Brunei before Singapore as India aims to up its 'chips' in extended neighbourhood

A historic first

In an interview with ANI, Alok Amitabh Dimri, the Indian High Commissioner to Brunei, described Modi's upcoming visit as a momentous occasion for both countries. He emphasised that this marks the official bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei Darussalam in four decades of diplomatic relations. 

Advertisment

"In our four decades of diplomatic relationship, this is the first bilateral official visit by the Prime Minister of India to Brunei Darussalam. It is a historic moment in our bilateral relationship and also for the Indian community in Brunei Darussalam that high-level bilateral engagement between Prime Minister Shri Modi and His Majesty the King is going to take place," Dimri said.

He also highlighted the rich cultural and historical connections between India and Brunei. 

Regarding the outcomes of Modis visit Dimri mentioned that a joint statement is expected.

Also read | Haryana assembly elections: Congress, AAP in talks for alliance, grapple over seat sharing

"We are expecting a joint statement, which would take stock of the bilateral relations and between both countries. The statement is also expected to cover the key areas of interest between both countries."

Modi is also expected to sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in areas of collaboration.

Indian diaspora welcomes Modi to Brunei

During his visit to Brunei, Modi inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city. He also had the opportunity to meet with members of the Indian community living there.

Next stop: Singapore

After Brunei, Modi will travel to Singapore from 4 to 5 September. 

(With inputs from agencies)