Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Bandar Seri Begawan this afternoon on the first leg of his two-nation visit to Brunei and Singapore. This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei.

Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome and received by the Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei, Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Mr. Modi will hold talks with Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on the way forward for the bilateral relationship tomorrow.

Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India in Bandar Seri Begawan this evening.

Prime Minister Modi lit a lamp and unveiled a plaque at the new Chancery. The chancery complex embodies a sense of Indianness and masterfully integrates traditional motifs and lush tree plantations. The use of elegant claddings and durable Kota stones further enhances its aesthetic appeal. The Prime Minister interacted with the Indian community members who were present at the inauguration. He appreciated their contribution as a living bridge between the two countries and strengthening bilateral ties. The first phase of Indians arriving in Brunei started with the discovery of oil in the 1920s. Currently, around 14 thousand Indians are residing in Brunei. Mr. Modi also visited the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Brunei.

Earlier, in his departure statement, Mr. Modi expressed confidence that his visit to Brunei and Singapore will further strengthen India’s partnership with the two countries and the larger ASEAN region. He said both countries are important partners in India’s Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Vision. He said, as India and Brunei celebrate the 40 years of diplomatic relations, he is looking forward to his meetings with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other esteemed members of the royal family.

Mr. Modi will travel to Singapore tomorrow on the second leg of his visit. He added that he is looking forward to the opportunity to meet President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. Mr. Modi will also meet with leaders of Singapore’s vibrant business community. The Prime Minister said he is looking forward to discussions to deepen the strategic partnership with Singapore, particularly in new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalisation, and sustainable development.