His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to send a congratulatory message to President of Vietnam, Nguyen Minh Triet, on the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In the message, His Majesty said, "Over the last 15 years we have seen much progress in the bilateral relations between our two countries. Much of this can be attributed to the many exchanges of visits at all levels between our people, the increase of our cooperation in various fields and the considerable efforts we have made regionally and internationally to promote security and development for our peoples.
"In this regard, I would like to commend the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on successfully hosting the 14th APEC Summit last November.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to you for your personal contribution to strengthening the long-standing ties between our two countries. I am confident that this much-valued relationship will continue to grow in strength over the years."
His Majesty also wished the president, the government and people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam good health, prosperity and happiness in the New Year.
Meanwhile, in a similar congratulatory message by HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, to his Vietnamese counterpart, Pham Gia Khiem, HRH said, "Our people have enjoyed extensive cooperation during the past 15 years and have developed a mutual understanding and respect for one another that is the lasting foundation for true friendship. I look forward to continuing to strengthen these ties in the coming years."
HRH also lauded the great personal contribution the Vietnamese foreign minister and others have made to both countries' excellent bilateral relations.
(28th February 2007)
