India and Brunei have taken significant steps to deepen their bilateral relationship, focusing on defence, space cooperation, and direct connectivity. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Brunei, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing their collaboration in satellite and launch vehicle operations.
The agreement includes cooperation on Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand Stations for satellites and rockets. Additionally, the two countries will now enjoy a direct flight between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai, further facilitating people-to-people connections.
In their discussions, Prime Minister Modi and Brunei Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah addressed various global and regional issues, including climate change, terrorism, and regional security. They reaffirmed their commitment to the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to work together on issues such as ICT, fintech, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.
Both leaders emphasized the urgent need to combat terrorism and pledged to strengthen their cooperation in fighting transnational organized crime. They also expressed their commitment to advancing their bilateral partnership in several areas, including defence, trade, education, and culture.
The visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Brunei, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The leaders also discussed enhancing maritime cooperation through regular exchanges, joint exercises, and collaborations at various international forums.
Prime Minister Modi invited Sultan Bolkiah to visit India, further cementing the strategic relationship between the two countries. Both leaders reiterated their dedication to maintaining regional peace and stability and promised to continue their collaboration in various bilateral and multilateral settings.
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