Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Brunei marks a significant milestone in the 40-year diplomatic relationship between the two countries. This visit underscores the deepening friendship and cooperation between India and Brunei, with a particular focus on boosting commercial and cultural linkages.
Upon arriving in Brunei on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi expressed his anticipation for strengthening bilateral ties, emphasizing his commitment to fostering stronger commercial and cultural connections. The visit commenced with a ceremonial welcome for the Prime Minister, setting the stage for a series of high-level engagements.
One of the highlights of the visit is Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah at his official residence, the magnificent Istana Nurul Iman Palace. This opulent palace, meaning “Palace of the Light of Faith,” was commissioned by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in 1981. The Istana Nurul Iman holds the title of the world’s largest residential palace, as recognized by Guinness World Records, and is a testament to Brunei’s grandeur.
The palace has served as a venue for prominent events, including the 28th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, which was held virtually from this impressive location. The Istana Nurul Iman Palace spans an impressive 200,000 square meters, showcasing its scale and opulence. Within its walls reside 1,788 rooms, including an astounding 257 bathrooms, ensuring both spaciousness and privacy. The palace’s 44 staircases, crafted from 38 different types of marble, further enhance its luxurious design. Additionally, five luxurious swimming pools provide relaxation, while a mosque with a capacity of 1,500 worshippers underscores the palace’s role as a center of governance and spirituality.
The palace’s architecture masterfully blends Brunei’s Islamic culture with Malay traditions. Its striking white exterior is accentuated by golden domes, including a central dome adorned with 22-carat gold. The interior, designed by Khuan Chew, who also worked on Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, is embellished with gold and marble, adding to the palace’s grandeur.
The Ministry of External Affairs has highlighted Brunei’s importance as a key partner in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. It emphasizes that India and Brunei share a longstanding and friendly relationship characterized by mutual respect and understanding on both bilateral and multilateral issues. This relationship is further solidified by historical, cultural, and traditional ties spanning a millennium.
This visit marks the first bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei and coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, making it a particularly significant moment in their shared history.
During his visit, PM Modi will engage in comprehensive discussions with Brunei’s leadership on various aspects of the bilateral relationship, exploring new areas for collaboration and strengthening existing partnerships.
Following his visit to Brunei, PM Modi will embark on the second leg of his two-nation tour, traveling to Singapore on September 4-5. In Singapore, he will meet with his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong, as well as President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and former Prime Ministers Lee Hsien Loong and Goh Chok Tong. This will be Modi’s fifth trip to Singapore and his first since 2018. During his stay in Singapore, he will participate in a business roundtable with local leaders, engage with semiconductor industry players, and foster economic partnerships. He will be accompanied by the Indian Foreign Minister and National Security Advisor.
