United States (US) Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn McClelland highlighted the long standing diplomatic ties between Brunei Darussalam and the US during a celebration to mark US’ 248th Independence Day at the US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam yesterday.
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Sultanate and the US.
The ambassador said she witnessed first-hand friendship and all Brunei has to offer for over two years and is awestruck by Brunei’s breathtaking landscape, from the rainforest to beaches.
“Even more striking is the warmth of its people. The connections we’ve forged here are deeply cherished. They served as anchors holding our ties firmly in place as they continue to grow and deepen,” said McClelland.
The ambassador said the USS Constitution dropped anchor in Brunei Bay over 170 years ago and it laid the groundwork for a lasting relationship with a treaty of peace, friendship, commerce and navigation signed in 1850.
McClelland said both countries, over the decades, built a strong foundation for strategic partnership and has worked together on regional security, economic development, climate change and people to people exchanges.
The ambassador sees immense potential for deepening friendship, partnership and cooperation. Together, both countries can navigate the challenges of the 21st century and ensure a more prosperous future for everyone, said McClelland.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and spouse Pengiran Datin Hajah Noor Yashimah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Hashim attended the Independence Day celebration themed ‘Anchored in Friendship’.
The ambassador presented a decorative paddle as a memento to the minister. – James Kon
