HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send messages of congratulations to Truong Tan Sang and Nguyen Tan Dung, the President and Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, as well as the government and people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the occasion of the 68th National Day of Vietnam.

In the message to Truong Tan Sang, His Majesty much appreciated the long-standing ties of friendship and goodwill between the two countries and looked forward to continue working with Truong Tan Sang to strengthen this valuable cooperation as close neighbours and partners in the region.

In ending the message, His Majesty extended his kindest regards and very best wishes for the continued good health and happiness of the President of Vietnam as well as for the welfare and prosperity of the people of the country.

In the message to Nguyen Tan Dung, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, His Majesty greatly valued the warm ties of friendship and close cooperation long enjoyed by the two countries and peoples and especially appreciated the valuable support given by Nguyen Tan Dung to Brunei Darussalam’s chairmanship of Asean this year and looked forward to welcoming him to Brunei Darussalam again next month to attend the Asean meetings.

In ending the message, His Majesty extended his kindest regards and best wishes for the continued good health and happiness of the Prime Minister of Vietnam and for the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.

Meanwhile, in a similar message from His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, to Pham Binh Minh, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, HRH sent his warmest congratulations to the foreign minister and the government and the people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on their National Day.

“It has been a pleasure working closely with you over the past year and I much appreciate the valuable cooperation and support you have given us throughout our Asean chairmanship. I look forward to continuing our important discussions on the region in the weeks and months ahead,” said HRH and wished the foreign minister good health and happiness. - Borneo Bulletin (2 September 2013)