His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a message of congratulations to Barack H Obama, President of the United States of America, as well as to the government and people of the United States of America on the occasion of their Independence Day.

In the message, His Majesty expressed his appreciation over the warm ties of friendship and goodwill enjoyed between the people of Brunei Darussalam and the United States of America and the expanding areas of cooperation between the two countries.

His Majesty also looked forward to continuing work to strengthen these long-standing ties and valuable bilateral relations, as well as the important partnership between the two countries in the region.

In concluding the message, His Majesty conveyed his kindest regards and best wishes to Obama and his family for a very happy celebration.

Meanwhile, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has sent a congratulatory message to Hillary R Clinton, Secretary of State of the United States of America on the occasion of the anniversary of their Independence Day which falls today.

In the message, HRH said he valued the longstanding and friendly cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and the United States of America as well as the goodwill shared by both countries' people.

HRH also appreciated the personal contribution that the US Secretary of State has made in strengthening important ties in recent years.

"My kindest regards to you and your family, together with my best wishes for a happy 4th of July celebration," said HRH. - Borneo Bulletin (4 July 2012)