India, Brunei Elevate Bilateral Ties to ‘Enhanced Partnership’

Syllabus: GS2/ International Relations

In News

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Brunei in September 2024 marks a significant milestone in India-Brunei relations, commemorating 40 years of diplomatic ties.

About

• It was the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei.

• This visit is pivotal in furthering India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision, signaling Brunei’s importance in India’s strategic and economic interests in Southeast Asia.
• Both nations have a long history of friendship and cooperation, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1984.

Key Highlights of the visit

• MoU on Space Collaboration: The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Telemetry, Tracking, and Telecommand Station operations for satellite and launch vehicles. This partnership strengthens India’s space ambitions, with Brunei hosting crucial infrastructure for ISRO.
• Economic Cooperation: Both leaders emphasized expanding trade in sectors like technology, agriculture, and finance. Discussions also focused on food security and the exchange of best practices in agriculture.
• Direct Flight Connection: A new direct flight between Bandar Seri Begawan and Chennai was announced, enhancing people-to-people exchanges, trade, and tourism.
• Defense and Security Cooperation: The leaders discussed deepening defense ties, including joint naval exercises and port visits. Both countries stressed the importance of maritime cooperation and the adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Regional Cooperation: They reaffirmed their commitment to the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and condemned terrorism, calling for regional stability.

Significance of India-Brunei Relations

• Strategic Positioning: Brunei plays a crucial role in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, particularly in maritime security and regional peace.
• Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The visit signifies a shift to an ‘Enhanced Partnership,’ focusing on mutual cooperation in defense, space technology, and cultural ties.
• Act East Policy: Brunei is an important partner for India in its broader Act East Policy, helping India deepen its engagement with Southeast Asia, particularly through ASEAN.

Source: TH