His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a message of congratulations to Mr Lee Hsien Loong on the occasion of his recent reappointment as Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore.

In the message to PM Lee, His Majesty valued the close friendship between the two countries and thanked the Singapore Premier most warmly for his personal contribution in enhancing these much-valued ties over the years.

His Majesty looked forward to continue strengthening cooperation both bilaterally and as long-standing regional partners. His Majesty concluded the message by wishing the Singapore Prime Minister, the Government and people of Singapore much success in the coming years and extended his warmest personal regards to Mr Lee and his family.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee was sworn into office on Saturday at the helm of a 14-member cabinet following the May 7 general election, dpa added.

President S R Nathan presided over the ceremony in the presence of some 700 invited guests at the Istana, the presidential palace. Lee, 59, has appointed two deputy prime ministers in a bid to appease opponents seeking a change in the style of government.

The ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has governed the prosperous city-state for more than five decades. - Borneo Bulletin (23th May 2011)