His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a congratulatory message to His Imperial Majesty Akihito, Emperor of Japan and Yoshihiko Noda, the Prime Minister of Japan as well as to the people of Japan on the auspicious occasion of the Birthday of His Imperial Majesty Akihito.

In the message, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam expressed his pleasure at the progress in deepening the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries, and was confident that these much-valued ties would continue to prosper in the coming years.

In ending the message, His Majesty also conveyed his best wishes for the continued good health and happiness of His Imperial Majesty, Her Imperial Majesty and the Imperial Family.

In a similar message to Yoshihiko Noda, the Prime Minister of Japan, His Majesty expressed his pleasure at meeting the Prime Minister during the Apec Economic Leaders' meeting and the Asean Summit last month. His Majesty also looked forward to continuing working with the Prime Minister in enhancing the warm friendship and close cooperation shared between the two countries and their peoples.

In ending his message, His Majesty conveyed his best wishes and kindest regards to the Prime Minister and the people of Japan for their continued good health and prosperity. - Borneo Bulletin (23rd December 2011)