Bandar Seri Begawan - The Ministry of Defence (MinDef) yesterday received a visit by the Commander of United States Pacific Command (USPACOM), Admiral Samuel J Locklear III at Bolkiah Garrison.

Upon arrival, Admiral Samuel J Locklear III was welcomed by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat. Admiral Samuel J Locklear III was accompanied by the Ambassador of the United States of America to Brunei Darussalam, Daniel L Shields. Also present were the Acting Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Defence, Awang Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad; directors and senior officers of the ministry.

The visit underpinned the strong and friendly defence relations between Brunei Darussalam and the United States, which has continued to grow and strengthen over the years. It further provides opportunities to explore areas of mutual defence cooperation between the two countries.

Brunei and the United States signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation on November 29, 1994. The MoU served as a framework for fostering closer defence relations and cooperation between the defence establishments and armed forces of both countries.

Admiral Samuel J Locklear III then made a courtesy call to Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander, Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin. Also present were Deputy Commander of RBAF, Services Commanders, Directors, Commandants and RBAF senior officers.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin