His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send congratulatory messages to the President of the Republic of Singapore, Mr SR Nathan, and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, Mr Lee Hsien Loong, on the occasion of the 43rd National Day of the Republic of Singapore.

In the message to Singapore's President, His Majesty expressed his pleasure at the continued growth and strengthening of the close relations between the two countries and peoples and his confidence that the strong ties and cooperation to be enhanced and developed both bilaterally and multilaterally.

His Majesty also extended his personal best wishes for Mr SR Nathan's continued good health and happiness as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of the Republic of Singapore.

In a similar message to Mr Lee Hsien Loong, the Prime Minister of Singapore, His Majesty also expressed his happiness of the continued strengthening of the close relations between the two countries and peoples and wished him continued good health and happiness.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade sent a similar congratulatory message to Mr George Yeo, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore, on the occasion of the 43rd National Day of Singapore.

In the message HRH extended his congratulations to Mr George Yeo, the government and people of Singapore on the occasion.

HRH congratulated Singapore's government on the outstanding leadership it offered in its role as standing chairman of Asean during a truly momentous year in the region.

HRH also extended his personal appreciation for the true skill and wise counsel, the Singapore's Foreign Affairs Minister had constantly offered as chairman.

Touching on the recent success of AMM, PMC and ARF sessions, HRH Prince Mohamed felt that this was owed to Mr George Yeo's personal contribution.

HRH also in the message looked forward in continuing to strengthen the countries' close friendship, cooperation and mutual respect. - Borneo Bulletin (9th August 2008)