James Kon
United Kingdom’s (UK) Trade Envoy to Brunei Darussalam, Myanmar and Thailand Mark Garnier will be visiting the Sultanate tomorrow to deepen trade and economic ties.
According to the British High Commission in Brunei Darussalam, this will be Garnier’s second visit to the Sultanate as trade envoy. His first visit was in 2016.
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 has consented to grant an audience to Garnier.
The trade envoy, who will also meet with ministers, business leaders and industry experts, is in the country to explore bilateral cooperation for the UK and Brunei, focussing on finance, education and energy.
Garnier said, “I am really looking forward to my second visit to the Sultanate and to deepen our trading and economic relationship.
“The UK’s plan to accede to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific-Partnership (CPTPP) of which Brunei is a founding member and UK becoming an ASEAN dialogue partner has really opened up more trade and economic opportunities for UK and Brunei. I am keen to explore how the UK can collaborate with Brunei on economic diversification.
“Following UK’s COP26 presidency, we are keen to work closely with other countries to deliver on commitments made at COP26. I was thrilled to hear Brunei had committed to be net-zero by 2050 and to phase out coal. I hope we can explore Brunei’s energy priorities and how we can support the country.”
British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam John Virgoe said, “We look forward to UK’s trade envoy’s visit to Brunei. He is keen to celebrate our special relationship with the Sultanate. This visit is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the Sultanate.”
