HEADS of State from the world over have sent congratulatory messages to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the 29th National Day celebrations today.

Russian President Vladimir V Putin said, “With pleasure, I note the successful development of friendly relations between our countries. I am confident that further expansion of Russian and Brunei political dialogue, fruitful bilateral cooperation and partner interaction in international affairs will contribute to the promotion of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

“I wish Your Majesty good health, happiness and success, as well as to the people of Brunei.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey V Lavrov sent a similar message to His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei.

In it he said, “I note with appreciation the progressive development of Russia-Brunei relations over the last year. I am confident that the coordination of the efforts of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of our countries in the international arena, which is gaining new measurement in view of Brunei’s Chairmanship of Asean this year, will further contribute to strengthening peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

“I wish Your Royal Highness good health, success and prosperity.”

Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State John Kerry, speaking on behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, expressed his best wishes and congratulations to the people of Brunei Darussalam as the nation celebrates its 29th National Day.

In a statement issued by the Embassy of the United States, John Kerry stated, “Over 160 years ago, the United States and Brunei signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Commerce and Navigation, which proclaimed that peace, friendship, and good understanding shall from henceforward and forever subsist between our two countries. It is my pleasure to renew the spirit of that commitment. Our two countries are working together on a dynamic bilateral and regional agenda to promote stability and economic growth.

“We are partnering on initiatives to promote commercial interests, expand educational opportunities and people-to-people connections, and increase English language instruction in Asean. We especially look forward to working together this year under the auspices of the US-Asia Pacific Comprehensive Partnership for a Sustainable Energy Future,” the statement added.

Concluding his message, Secretary of State John Kerry said, “The United States will continue to work closely with Brunei as it chairs Asean and hosts the East Asian Summit this year. We are eager to share the example of the successful friendship between our two countries with the entire region. I send you our warmest wishes for continued peace and prosperity in the years to come.”

Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Daniel Sheilds on behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States said, “It is my special honour to offer warm wishes to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and to the people of the entire nation as they celebrate the 29th National Day.

“The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Negaraku Brunei Darussalam,’ which instils a sense of pride and passion in the nation, and is a privilege to witness. Brunei’s dedication to its people is what truly makes the country an Abode of Peace.

“I would like to thank His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for his leadership role as the Chair for Asean 2013. We look forward to Brunei’s leadership during this exciting time as we explore growing opportunities that benefit both countries and deepen partnerships in business, education, and security.

“As the nation celebrates this joyous occasion, I wish the people of Brunei a Happy 29th National Day!” - Borneo Bulletin (23 February 2013)