External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Brunei and Singapore as a pivotal moment in India’s Act East policy. In a post on social media X, Dr Jaishankar said the visit is seen as a deepening of diplomatic and economic ties with both Southeast Asian nations. A major development from the visit was the elevation of India-Brunei relations to an Enhanced Partnership, a historic move coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. This marked the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei.

In Singapore, the visit marked the upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, ushering in a new phase of cooperation. One of the highlights of Mr Modi’s visit to Singapore was his tour of a semiconductor testing facility, reflecting the growing importance of technology and innovation in the partnership. Leaders in Brunei and Singapore also acknowledged the significant reforms undertaken by India over the past decade, which have contributed to India’s emergence as a global economic power. Both countries expressed their enthusiasm for further deepening cooperation and expanding bilateral engagements in the years to come.