HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a congratulatory message to US President Barack H Obama, as well as 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 long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries and people. His Majesty also looks forward to working with Obama to strengthen these much-valued ties.

His Majesty also greatly appreciated the opportunity to visit US earlier this year and looks forward to welcoming the US President in October for the East Asia Summit.

In concluding the message, His Majesty conveyed his kindest regards and best wishes to the US President and his family for a very happy Fourth of July celebration.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, sent a similar congratulatory message to US Secretary of State John F Kerry.

In the message, His Royal Highness expressed his pleasure to congratulate the US Secretary of State, as well as the Government and people of the United States of America, on the occasion of their Independence Day.

“I much appreciate your recent visit to Brunei Darussalam and your government’s continuous support for our Asean Chairmanship this year,” His Royal Highness said. “This has greatly strengthened the growing cooperation we enjoy in many areas of development and has helped to strengthen our bilateral and international partnerships.”

His Royal Highness greatly values the warm friendship shared by the people of Brunei Darussalam and US, and looks forward to continue working with the US Secretary of State to strengthen these important and valuable ties.

In ending the message, His Royal Highness extended his best wishes to the US Secretary of State and his family for a very happy Fourth of July celebration. - Borneo Bulletin (4 July 2013)