BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

JAPAN is keen to contribute to the diversification of Brunei’s economy by making use of its technologies, its ambassador said.

Noriko Iki said efforts in contributing to Brunei’s economy would lead to the strengthening of economic relations between both countries.

During a reception to mark the 81st birthday of Japanese Emperor Akihito last night, she said both countries have cooperated in the fields of energy, construction as well as halal food and medicine production.

She assured that Japan’s economy is reviving and set to continue even after the country’s general election that is scheduled to take place on December 14.

“(To improve) investments of Japanese companies in Brunei, the Embassy of Japan will continue to support Japanese companies and also continue to cooperate with the government of Brunei.”

Following His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mui’zzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s visit to Japan last December as the co-chair of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit, the envoy said the monarch had continued exchanging words with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on various occasions such as the East Asia Summit and Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit this year.

The close relationship at the top level of both governments is appreciated, she added.

Representing Brunei at the reception was Communications Minister Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar. He was accompanied by his wife Datin Hjh Hasiah.

The ambassador went on to say that people-to-people exchange is also important for Brunei and Japan. Citing an example, she said Brunei has been involved in the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) since 1985 and it has made a significant contribution to mutual understanding and trust between Brunei and Japan.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Brunei and Japan.

The One Asia Joint Concert 2014-AUN J Classic Orchestra will be held to mark the diplomatic ties tonight.

The Brunei Times