HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a message of congratulations to U Thein Sein, President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar as well as the Government and people of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on the occasion of the Independence Day of that country.

In his message, His Majesty stated that it was a great pleasure receiving the President of Myanmar in Brunei last year and that the visit had reinforced the warm and friendly ties enjoyed by the two countries and peoples.

His Majesty also looked forward to working closely with the President of Myanmar in the months ahead to strengthen the much valued bilateral relations between the two countries and the important regional partnership in Asean.

His Majesty also expressed his great appreciation for the support given by the Republic of the Union of Myanmar during Brunei Darussalam’s Chairmanship of Asean.

In ending the message, His Majesty extended his kindest regards and very best wishes to U Thein Sein for his continued good health and happiness.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in a similar message to Wunna Maung Lwin, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, congratulated him and the Government and people of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on their Independence Day.

“This year marks 20 years of diplomatic relations between our countries and I look forward to working closely with you in the coming year to continue strengthening our bilateral cooperation and our partnership in Asean.

“It was a great pleasure seeing you in Brunei last month during President Thein Sein’s visit and I send my kindest regards and best wishes to you and your family for a very happy Independence Day celebration,” said HRH. - Borneo Bulletin (4 January 2013)