His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to send messages of congratulations to Hu Jintao, President of the People's Republic of China; Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, as well as the government and people of the People's Republic of China on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

In the message to the president of the People's Republic of China, His Majesty stated that it was a pleasure to meet him at the recent APEC meeting in Russia and that he much appreciated his commitment and contribution in strengthening the longstanding friendship and close cooperation enjoyed between the two countries, not only in bilateral endeavours but also in works as partners in the region.

In the message to Wen Jiabao, the monarch greatly valued the close cooperation and historical friendship between the two countries and peoples, and very much appreciated the premier's personal contribution in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two countries and as well as the close partnership between Asean and China.

In ending the messages, His Majesty extended his kindest regards to Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, sent a similar congratulatory message to Yang Jiechi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, People's Republic of China.

"It has once again been a great pleasure working with you over the past year and I much appreciate your personal contribution to the excellent relations shared by our governments and people," HRH said. - Borneo Bulletin (01 October 2012)