Lima, November 15, 2024 — The Europe Today: State President Lương Cường of Vietnam met with the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, Hassanal Bolkiah, on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week to discuss deepening bilateral ties and enhancing ASEAN unity. President Cường conveyed greetings from Vietnam’s Party and government leaders and expressed satisfaction with the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.
The leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral relations by promoting high-level exchanges and effectively implementing their 2023-2027 action programme. They highlighted the need for closer collaboration in priority areas, including oil and gas, chemicals, Halal food processing, and tourism, along with initiatives to boost people-to-people exchange.
President Cường affirmed Vietnam’s support for Brunei’s business investments and called for Brunei’s assistance in certifying Vietnamese agricultural and Halal products. In turn, the Sultan pledged to enhance cooperation, particularly in maritime collaboration, and expressed willingness to extend the Memorandum of Understanding on the fisheries hotline and facilitate fishing permits for Vietnamese vessels.
The leaders underscored their commitment to ASEAN unity and regional stability, emphasizing peaceful dispute resolution in the East Sea under international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They also discussed coordinated efforts on regional issues and affirmed support for Vietnam’s role as host of future ASEAN and APEC forums.
In conclusion, the Sultan expressed his anticipation for a forthcoming visit to Vietnam, while inviting President Cường to visit Brunei.
