Sultan Hassanal having an audience with King Norodom Sihamoni at the Throne Hall. - INFOFOTO
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network): Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has expressed confidence that the shared ties between Brunei and Cambodia will continue to thrive as both sides navigate the challenges faced by the global community, including the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical uncertainty and major power rivalry.
The sultan delivered a titah during a state luncheon hosted by King of Cambodia Norodom Sihamoni at Preah Reach Damnak Serei Mongkol, Royal Palace Ground on Monday (Nov 14).
As this year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and Cambodia, the Sultan acknowledged the excellent cooperation between the two countries in the areas of education, trade, defence and people-to-people exchanges.
The goodwill and friendship both sides enjoy at all levels were built upon the foundation set by the late King Norodom Sihanouk.
The Sultan also expressed his appreciation for Cambodia’s role in Brunei Darussalam’s food supply by ensuring a steady supply of jasmine rice.
With the signing of the memorandum of understanding on bilateral consultations during the state visit, Sultan Hassanal believed that the cooperation reaffirms the commitment of both sides to advance relations further, and encouraged for it to be implemented soon as well as explore new areas of cooperation for mutual benefit.
Following the 40th and 41st Asean Summits and related summits, the Sultan extended his congratulations to Cambodia on its successful chairmanship of Asean and expressed confidence that Cambodia’s efforts over the past year will contribute to long-term resilience.
Earlier, the King of Cambodia expressed his sincere gratitude to the government and citizens of Brunei for supporting Cambodians in the sectors of education, social and humanitarian affairs as well as technical knowledge.
He emphasised that the state visit of Sultan Hassanal is a testament to the continuation of long-standing close ties and friendship, solidarity and bilateral cooperation between Brunei and Cambodia.
A state luncheon, enlivened with cultural performances, was held in honour of the sultan's visit.
