His Majesty Sees India And Russia As Key Partners

Kuala Lumpur - At the 4th Asean-India Summit held Tuesday afternoon in Kuala Lumpur, the leaders discussed issues of regional and international importance, as well as reviewing the progress of cooperation between Asean and India.

At the summit, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam expressed his satisfaction with the way Asean-India relations were progressing, in particular, the signing of the Asean-India partnership document last year, which reflects the commitment of both sides of strengthen the dialogue relations.

His Majesty further stated that India was an important partner in the future Asean community that worked in the interest of the people. Strengthening economic relations between Asean and India would give positive signals and greater confidence to investors and business people.

As for the future, His Majesty expressed the hope that Asean and India would conclude negotiations in all areas within the framework agreement, particularly in establishing the regional trade and investment area.

In the political and security field, His Majesty stated that India played an important role both regionally and internationally. On the development cooperation, His Majesty expressed his appreciation to India for its assistance and support.

His Majesty believed that the strong historical links between Asean and India would be strengthened even more by further visits and exchanges, especially among the young people and academics.

His Majesty then attended the first Asean-Russia Summit. The summit among others reviewed the status of Asean-Russia cooperation and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest.

In His Majesty's titah, His Majesty expressed his appreciation for Russia's commitment and strong interest in the region's development.

His Majesty stated that the summit was a major step forward for Asean and Russia, for it showed a strong desire on both sides to build peace, stability and prosperity.

His Majesty noted that the summit would give strong impetus and add substance to the existing ties, especially at a time when Asean and Russia were facing many complex challenges, such as the threat of terrorism, infectious diseases and the effects of natural disasters.

His Majesty further expressed his appreciation for Russia's- contribution to the security in the region by acceding to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation as well as participating in the Asean Regional Forum.

His Majesty added that improving economic relations would make the relationship more complete. It was in this context that His Majesty welcomed the Agreement on the Economic and Development Cooperation.

His Majesty further stated that another area that needs attention was in the social and cultural field, in order to promote better understanding and greater awareness of each other's cultures and traditions. His Majesty finally said that Russia was an important strategic partner in various political areas.

Later, His Majesty consented to join the leaders of Asean and Russia in signing the Asean-Russia Joint Declaration on Progressive and Comprehensive Partnership.

The Joint Declaration reflects efforts by Asean and Russia to enhance their dialogue partnership. Attached to it is a Programme of Action that outlines specific areas of cooperation to be pursued by Asean and Russia.

The Joint Declaration serves as a good basis to build many valuable future ties. Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.  -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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