PM Modi kicks off historic two-nation tour with landmark visit to Brunei

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his two-nation tour on Tuesday with a landmark visit to Brunei Darussalam, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has made an official bilateral visit to the Southeast Asian nation. In a gesture of high regard and hospitality, Prime Minister Modi was personally welcomed upon arrival by Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, underscoring the importance of this historic visit.

PM @narendramodi alights in Brunei to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

This visit is special as it is the first ever bilateral visit by an Indian PM and is taking place as the two countries are celebrating… pic.twitter.com/y5qk50qYW5

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 3, 2024

PM Modi's statement on historic visit to Brunei

Before his departure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his anticipation for the visit, stating, "Today marks my first-ever bilateral visit to Brunei Darussalam. As we commemorate 40 years of diplomatic relations, I am eager to engage with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and other distinguished members of the Royal Family to elevate our historical relationship to new heights."

Focus on expanding bilateral cooperation

The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the importance of the visit, noting, "This visit will further enhance India’s cooperation with Brunei across various sectors, including defense, trade and investment, energy, space technology, health, capacity building, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. We also aim to explore new areas of collaboration."

Warm reception from Indian diaspora in Brunei

The Indian diaspora in Brunei eagerly awaited Prime Minister Modi's arrival. "We are all extremely excited," said a member of the community. "We've been anticipating this moment for years. Finally, we will see him, and we are all very happy."

Another member added, "I am thrilled to see PM Modi. We take great pride in the changes he has brought to India and the recognition of our nation as a global leader."

Engagements in Singapore to follow Brunei visit

After concluding his visit to Brunei, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Singapore on Wednesday. There, he will meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.