On Tuesday, PM Modi made history as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Brunei, celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Southeast Asian nation. His visit marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
Luxurious Luncheon at Sultan’s Residence
During his visit, PM Modi was honored with a lavish luncheon at the Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. The menu was a blend of traditional Indian cuisine and international delicacies. Guests had the option of enjoying channa masala, kofta, bhindi, and jeera rice, or selecting from a range of gourmet offerings including grilled lobster, Tasmanian salmon, prawns scallops, and coconut barley risotto. Accompanying dishes included vegetable rice cake, lentil soup, vegetable quiche, and forest mushrooms with black truffle. For dessert, the menu featured mango saffron peda, motichoor ladoo, and surti ghari pistachio.
Bilateral Talks and Strengthening Relations
On Wednesday, PM Modi engaged in detailed bilateral discussions with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. The talks focused on enhancing bilateral relations, expanding trade and commercial exchanges, and fostering cultural connections between India and Brunei. Modi emphasized the commitment to deepen cooperation in various sectors.
Inauguration and Cultural Visits
Earlier in his visit, Modi inaugurated the new Chancery of the High Commission of India in Brunei and toured the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. These events underscore the significance of the visit in reinforcing India’s diplomatic presence and cultural ties in Brunei.
Future Cooperation and Sectoral Collaboration
In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, PM Modi expressed anticipation for advancing the historical relationship with Brunei. The visit aims to bolster cooperation across various sectors, including defense, trade, investment, energy, space technology, health, and cultural exchanges. The MEA highlighted that the visit would explore new avenues for collaboration and strengthen existing partnerships.
This historic visit not only celebrates the enduring relationship between India and Brunei but also highlights the ongoing commitment to expanding cooperation in diverse fields.