BRUNEI is exploring energy cooperation opportunities with Myanmar, said His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday.

In a titah during a state banquet hosted by Myanmar President U Thein Sein, His Majesty said the energy industry is an area with much potential for cooperation.

“At the same time, as we expand to new areas such as agriculture and fisheries, it would be good for our officials to have more regular consultations to strengthen our warm bilateral cooperation,” the monarch said.

His Majesty extended his support in Myanmar’s future developments through technical assistance programmes with its officials.

“For many Bruneians, teachers from Myanmar have taught us in our schools and your doctors have cared for us in our hospitals.

“Over this time, the personal relationship between our people has evolved into joint efforts in health, education and technical assistance,” the monarch added.

Recalling the vision for the region which was spoken by President Thein Sein last year, His Majesty acknowledged that it is no different from Brunei’s.

“Like Myanmar, we emphasise the need for a people-centred ASEAN, educating our youth, promoting small businesses and narrowing the development gap.

“This year, we have full confidence in Myanmar’s successful chairmanship (and) under your personal guidance Mr President, I am positive that ASEAN will move ever closer to its goals for a community,” the sovereign added.

His Majesty said Brunei will continue to work closely with Myanmar to advance common regional interests of peace and prosperity for the people.

Meanwhile, the Myanmar president praised His Majesty as ASEAN chair last year, saying that the regional bloc made significant achievements under his leadership.

“It is our view that Brunei has contributed greatly towards the implementation of the ASEAN community’s blueprints,” he said.

Thein Sein added that he looked forward to working more closely with the monarch in the bilateral context, and in the region to promote peace, stability and prosperity.

“I would also like to express my pleasure that this is Your Majesty’s second visit to Myanmar after the first visit in 1998,” the president added. He said both parties had a friendship and productive meeting on existing cooperation and further enhancing cooperation in the near future. After the state banquet, His Majesty together with the president proceeded to the Theatre Room for a cultural show where both of the head of states presented bouquet of flowers to representatives of the performers.

Accompanying His Majesty to the banquet were Minister of Finance II Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Hj Ibrahim and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng.

The Brunei Times