THE Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) needs to place emphasis on combating terrorism and extremism, addressing climate change and enhancing connectivity in the region.
This was stated by 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 in a titah at the opening ceremony of the 2nd ACD Summit, which was held at the Vithes Samosorn Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangkok yesterday.
“Greater connectivity, especially through the strengthening of linkages and communications would further contribute to Asia’s development and realising an Asian community,” the monarch said.
His Majesty observed that since the first ACD Summit in 2012, the international community has been faced by with a number of challenges, which include growing conflicts, effects of climate change, escalation of the refugee situation and how to ensure sustainable development.
However, in spite of these developments, His Majesty remained confident about Asia’s potential and place in the 21st Century as a region that is peaceful, stable, economically prosperous and comprehensively modern in the aspects of infrastructure, industry and open trade linkages.
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 delivering the titah at the opening ceremony of the 2nd Asia Cooperation Dialogue Summit.
His Majesty expressed hope to see Asia strive to be more politically and socially responsive to the needs of its people, through the promotion of good governance, social equality and justice, and enhancing quality of life.
The monarch also recognised that the ACD is uniquely placed to contribute towards global efforts to tackle issues and concerns, and is working towards an Asian community.
In ending the titah, His Majesty looked forward to future direction of the ACD through the ‘ACD Vision for Asia Cooperation 2030’ and the ‘Bangkok Declaration’ as well as the ‘ACD Statement on Reigniting Growth through Partnerships for Connectivity’.
His Majesty with General (Rtd) Prayut Chan-O-Cha, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand.
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 in a group photo with other leaders at the 2nd Asia Cooperation Dialogue Summit. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO
Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by General (Rtd) Prayut Chan-O-Cha, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand.
His Majesty then joined the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, head of states, head of governments and head of delegations of ACD for a group photo session.
The opening ceremony of the 2nd ACD Summit began with the opening remarks by General (Rtd) Prayut Chan-O-Cha, in which he welcomed all the participants of ACD to the summit.
This was followed by statements by His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, and by the head of United Arab Emirates (UAE) delegations.
His Majesty at the hotel during the recitation of Doa Selamat by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.
His Majesty walking past a static guard at the Military Air Terminal 2, Bangkok, before boarding the royal aircraft.
Meanwhile, prior to His Majesty leaving the hotel after attending the 2nd ACD Summit, a Doa Selamat was recited by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.
His Majesty later walked past a static guard at the Military Air Terminal 2, Bangkok, before boarding the royal aircraft.
Present at the Military Air Terminal 2, Bangkok, to bid farewell to His Majesty was Dr Atchaka Sibunruang, Minister of Industry in Thailand.
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