India, Brunei forge partnership to ensure security in Indian Ocean

New Delhi, Sep 04: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei took several major steps to elevate bilateral ties between India and Brunei to an Enhanced Partnership. This first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei marks a key moment in the 40-year of diplomatic relations between the two nations, steering in a new era of strategic cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi, in a tweet following the visit and discussions, expressed his satisfaction with the outcomes of the visit, stating, "My visit to Brunei Darussalam was productive. It ushers in a new era of even stronger India-Brunei ties. Our friendship will contribute to a better planet. I am grateful to the people and Government of Brunei for their hospitality and affection."

The bilateral talks, held at the Istana Nurul Iman, covered a wide range of issues, reflecting the deep-rooted and multifaceted relationship between the two countries. Both leaders acknowledged the historical and cultural linkages that have long connected India and Brunei, now further solidified through the Enhanced Partnership. "This historic visit reaffirms our commitment to strengthening India’s Act East Policy, as we mark a decade of its implementation," Modi emphasised during the joint statement.

A significant highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the operation of Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand Station for Satellite and Launch Vehicles. This agreement, formalized by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Brunei’s Minister of Transport and Infocommunications H.E. Pengiran Dato Shamhary Pengiran Dato Mustapha, highlights the growing collaboration in space technology.

Modi praised Brunei's long standing support, saying, "The ISRO station in Brunei has been instrumental in India’s space exploration efforts, and this renewed agreement will further enhance our cooperation in space."

The leaders also announced the upcoming commencement of direct flight connections between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, a move expected to boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people ties. His Majesty Sultan Bolkiah expressed his enthusiasm for this development, stating, "The new air link will not only strengthen our bilateral relations but also enhance connectivity between ASEAN and India, fostering greater regional cooperation."

Economic cooperation was a key focus of the talks, with both leaders agreeing to explore and expand bilateral trade in emerging sectors such as ICT, fintech, cyber security, and renewable energy. They also emphasised the importance of food security, agreeing to enhance collaboration in agriculture and the food supply chain through the exchange of knowledge and best practices. "Leveraging our respective strengths in technology, finance, and agriculture will allow us to explore complementarities in a mutually beneficial manner," the joint statement highlighted.

In the area of defence and maritime cooperation, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regular exchanges of visits, training programs, and joint exercises. They recognised the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean and agreed to work closely to ensure maritime safety and security. "Our defence ties are a pillar of our relationship, and we will continue to enhance them through regular interactions and joint initiatives," His Majesty Sultan Bolkiah noted.

The discussions also extended to regional and global issues, with both leaders condemning terrorism in all its forms and calling for a unified global response. "No country should allow its territory to be used for terrorism; it is imperative that all states repudiate such acts and bring perpetrators to justice," the joint statement stressed. The leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation at various multilateral forums, including the United Nations, ASEAN, and the East Asia Summit.

Climate change was another critical area of focus, with His Majesty Sultan Bolkiah appreciating India’s initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). "Brunei values India's leadership in global climate action and looks forward to continued collaboration through platforms like the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change," His Majesty remarked.

In recognition of the important role of youth in national development, both leaders agreed to promote greater youth exchanges and educational cooperation. His Majesty expressed appreciation for India's ongoing support through scholarship programs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and e-ITEC initiatives. "These programs have been invaluable in building Brunei’s human resource capacities and strengthening our bilateral ties," he said.

The visit was celebrated not only as a milestone in diplomatic relations but also as a catalyst for future cooperation. The leaders adopted a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to further strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and to work together in promoting peace, stability, and development in the region. "Our discussions today have laid the foundation for a future of even closer cooperation, and I look forward to welcoming His Majesty to India in the near future," Modi concluded.

The visit culminated in an official lunch hosted by His Majesty in honour of Prime Minister Modi, symbolising the warmth and hospitality that have long characterized India-Brunei relations. The leaders parted with a shared vision for a prosperous future, guided by mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to regional and global peace.