His Majesty Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam had consented to send congratulatory messages to Giorgio Napolitano, the President of the Republic of Italy, on the occasion of the anniversary of the Republic of Italy.

His Majesty expressed his satisfaction with the warm relations between Brunei Darussalam and Republic of Italy, which continued to be strengthened. His Majesty hoped that this would be further enhanced in the future for the good of the two countries and the people.

His Majesty also hoped that Giorgio Napolitano, the President of the Republic of Italy, would always remain in good health and happiness and the people of the Republic of Italy always enjoy continued progress and prosperity.

In a similar congratulatory message to Silvio Berlusconi, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Italy, His Majesty congratulated Mr Berlusconi on the occasion of the Anniversary of the Republic of Italy. His Majesty also him wished continued good health and happiness.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in a separate congratulatory message to Mr Franco Frattini said.

"It gives me great pleasure to present my congratulations and best wishes to you and to the government and the people of Italy on the anniversary of the republic"

HRH Prince Mohammed Bolkiah added, "I look forward to continuing our work to enhance our friendly and cooperative relations both bilaterally and as regional partners in Asem and the Asean-EU Dialogue." - Borneo Bulletin (2nd June 2008)