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 noted Vietnam’s preparations for the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2020 and assured President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong of Brunei Darussalam’s full support.
His Majesty delivered the titah during the State Banquet hosted by the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam at the International Convention Centre, Hanoi during His Majesty’s State Visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam yesterday evening.
In his titah, His Majesty expressed the deepest appreciation to President Nguyen Phu Trong and to the Government and people of Vietnam for the generous hospitality and excellent arrangements extended to His Majesty and delegation.
Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
Upon arrival at the International Convention Centre, His Majesty was welcomed by the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Prior to the State Banquet, His Majesty exchanged gifts with the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. His Majesty, together with the President then proceeded to the Banquet Hall for the State Banquet.
The State Banquet began with the playing of the national anthems of both countries, followed by a welcoming address from the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Impressed with the developments achieved since the last State Visit, His Majesty hailed Vietnam’s accomplishments and significant transformation as a testament to the successful implementation of the country’s Doi Moi policy.
Citing Vietnam’s current status as the fastest growing economy in ASEAN, His Majesty expressed confidence that under the able leadership of President Nguyen Phu Trong, Vietnam would continue to make further strides towards economic progress and growth.
His Majesty lauded the continued growth in friendship since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Given that the expansion of cooperation in many areas including energy, education, agriculture and tourism had built a strong foundation for bilateral relations, His Majesty welcomed the elevation of relations to a ‘Comprehensive Partnership’.
His Majesty also added that the close proximity and direct air linkages would further facilitate and enhance trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, especially among youth and students.
His Majesty underlined the importance of continuing to strengthen their relationship and preserve the principles instrumental to peace and stability towards achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.
His Majesty looked forward to enhancing their friendship in the years to come, and also extended an invitation to President Nguyen Phu Trong and spouse to make a State Visit to Brunei Darussalam.
The State Banquet was further enlivened with a cultural performance.