Russia reaffirms commitment to strengthen ties with Brunei and Asean, says ambassador to Brunei
Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Mikhail Baranov and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar cutting a cake to mark Russian National Day. -- PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI-Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Russia places strong emphasis on cooperation within Asean-centric forums and regards Asean as a key pillar of regional security and development, with Brunei playing an important role in promoting inclusive dialogue in this sphere.
This was highlighted by Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam Mikhail Baranov in his remarks at the Russian National Day reception held at the Songket Ballroom Wednesday night.
'Our bilateral relations with Brunei Darussalam are developing in a spirit of mutual respect and constructive engagement,' said the ambassador. 'In July 2024, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Brunei's Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Erywan Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Mohd Yusof, on the sidelines of Asean-related events, reaffirming our shared interest in strengthening political dialogue.'
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar was present as the guest of honour, representing the Brunei Government.
Also in attendance were members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and invited guests from various sectors.
The event commenced with the national anthems of Brunei Darussalam and the Russian Federation, followed by welcoming remarks from Ambassador Baranov.
He noted that a recent visit by a Deputy Minister from the Prime Minister's Office to Moscow for the 13th Meeting of Senior Security Officials included a series of productive bilateral discussions, further strengthening cooperation in the field of security.
'Russia and Brunei also maintain close coordination within international institutions, where both countries often share similar views on global challenges and the principles that should govern international relations,' said the ambassador.
'I am confident that our partnership will continue to expand across many areas — from energy and education to cultural exchange and regional security — for the benefit of our peoples and in the interest of peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.'
The evening concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony by the ambassador and the guest of honour to mark the celebration of Russia Day.
The reception reflected the strong spirit of friendship between Brunei Darussalam and Russia and Russia's commitment to further deepening cooperation across multiple sectors for mutual benefit and global peace. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
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