His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, yesterday held a meeting with Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (UK) of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at No 10, Downing Street, London. Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
During the meeting, His Majesty congratulated the prime minister on his appointment as the new Prime Minister of the UK.
His Majesty touched on the bilateral cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and the UK, of which this year is special as it marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. On defence, His Majesty expressed pleasure that both countries have agreed to extend the presence of the British Garrison in Brunei, and welcomed the renewal of the ‘Exchange of Letters’.
In addition, His Majesty was also pleased with the progress of the Strategic Dialogue between Brunei and the UK.
On ASEAN, His Majesty appreciated the UK’s continued commitment as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner which has implemented relevant and important regional activities.
In addition, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, including developments in the Middle East.
At the meeting, His Majesty signed the ‘Exchange of Letters’ in the field of defence with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland representing the British Government.
The Exchange of Letters will further strengthen bilateral defence relations and foster cooperation between the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the British Armed Forces in areas of mutual interest.
