KUALA LUMPUR: Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Tuesday (Oct 28) attended the Asean-New Zealand Commemorative Summit and the fifth Asean-Australia Summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia.
Accompanying His Majesty was Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
Asean-New Zealand Commemorative Summit and gala lunch
His Majesty, in a titah expressed pleasure in commemorating the Golden Jubilee of Asean-New Zealand Dialogue Partnership, which led to the establishment of the Asean-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Amidst global economic uncertainties, Asean and New Zealand must work closely together to build more connected, competitive and resilient economies. His Majesty welcomed investment to enhance digital skills and improve digital infrastructure as well as the upgrade of the Asean-Australia-New Zealand FTA to build a more inclusive and future-ready region.
After the summit, His Majesty together with heads of state and government of ASEAN and New Zealand attended the ASEAN-New Zealand gala lunch.
Fifth Asean-Australia Summit
His Majesty delivered a titah, highlighting Australia as Asean’s first Dialogue Partner and the challenges faced in over five decades of partnership.
Australia, as Asean’s first Comprehensive Strategic Partner in 2021, is a key player in the region and provides steadfast support for the Asean Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and Asean Centrality, which is reinforced through the ‘Joint Leaders’ Statement on Conflict Prevention, Crisis Management and the Asean-led Regional Architecture’.
His Majesty also reaffirmed the vital importance of maritime security as a strategic domain for Asean and Australia. In this regard, His Majesty expressed appreciation for Australia’s continued support in strengthening Brunei’s understanding of maritime law. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
