PM Modi's Landmark Visit to Brunei: Deepening ASEAN Ties

India's Prime Minister, Modi, visited Brunei for the first time in 40 years, marking the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The visit included Brunei and Singapore, with key initiatives including establishing a Joint Working Group for defense cooperation, discussing space cooperation agreements, expanding trade ties, and focusing on cultural exchanges.

Historic Significance and Diplomatic Context

First-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei
Marks 40 years of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei
Aligns with India's 'Act East' Policy, strengthening ties with ASEAN nations
PM Modi received a royal welcome from Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
Visit includes Bru nei (September 3-4, 2024) and Singapore (September 4-5, 2024)

Key Initiatives and Agreements

Establishment of a Joint Working Group to enhance defense cooperation
Discussions on signing a space cooperation agreement
Expansion of trade ties and commercial linkages
Focus on cultural and people-to-people exchanges
Inauguration of new Indian High Commission Chancery in Brunei
Emphasis on cooperation in future technologies like semiconductors, green tech, and electric mobility

Brunei: Country Profile and India-Brunei Relations

Brunei: Islamic Sultanate on Borneo island, independent since 1984
Economy driven by crude oil and natural gas exports; member of OPEC+
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah: World's longest-serving monarch (since 1967)
Indian community in Brunei: ~14,000, contributing to healthcare and education sectors

Existing cooperation:

- Three MoUs in space technology
- Indian Telemetry, Tracking, and Command station in Brunei (since 2000)
- Defense cooperation MoU signed in 2016, renewed in 2021

Symbolic and Cultural Aspects

State luncheon hosted at Istana Nurul Iman Palace, world's largest residential palace
- 2,00,000 square meters, 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms
- Blends traditional Malay, Islamic, and modern architecture
PM Modi's visit to Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, showcasing cultural respect
Emphasis on shared history, culture, and civilization between India and Brunei

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