New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed optimism about enhancing India’s historical connections with Brunei Darussalam and deepening its strategic partnership with Singapore as he embarked on a three-day visit to the two nations on Tuesday. This marks the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi shared his enthusiasm for the visit: “Over the next two days, I will be visiting Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. During the various engagements in these nations, the focus will be on further deepening India’s ties with them. India-Brunei Darussalam diplomatic ties complete 40 glorious years. I look forward to meeting His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.”

Modi’s agenda in Singapore, where he will travel on Wednesday, includes talks with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. “We are eager to further cement ties in key sectors,” Modi added.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Brunei Visit

Unveiling the agenda for the Brunei visit, External Affairs Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar highlighted that the visit would cover multiple areas of cooperation between India and Brunei, including defence, trade, energy, technology, and cultural exchanges. The Indian diaspora in Brunei, which comprises about 14,000 people, plays a significant role in the country’s economy, particularly in the fields of healthcare and education.

PM Modi in Singapore**

PM Modi will proceed to Singapore on September 4, marking his first official visit to the country in nearly six years, following an invitation from Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. During his stay, Modi is scheduled to engage with Singapore’s leadership and meet with business leaders to explore further cooperation between the two nations.

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