BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

FOREIGN envoys yesterday reiterated their countries’ interest to strengthen bilateral ties with the sultanate.

They said this on the sidelines of the ceremonial parade held in conjunction with the 69th birthday of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

Newly appointed Philippines Ambassador to Brunei Meynardo LB Montealegre said he was looking forward to strengthening relations and ties between both countries.

Commenting on his first attendance to His Majesty’s birthday celebration, he said: “I look forward to the celebrations and wish His Majesty peace, prosperity and happiness.”

Montealegre presented his credential letter to His Majesty on May 21.

Russian Ambassador to Brunei Vladlen Semivolos lauded the march past performed for the monarch.

“This is my first time attending this parade in conjunction with His Majesty’s birthday celebrations,” said Semivolos who previously held the deputy director post at the Department of Asia and Pacific Cooperation of Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He was thankful for the invitation and enjoyed the atmosphere of the auspicious event.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Mohammed Abdul Hye, who had participated in previous editions of the celebration, lauded the progress made in Brunei under the leadership of His Majesty.

The Bangladeshi, who has been posted in Brunei since September 2012, also expressed Bangladesh’s keen interest in fortifying existing bilateral relations and cooperation with Brunei.

“We hope there will be more exchange visits between officials from Bangladesh and Brunei,” he said.

He added that His Majesty had been invited by the Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit Dhaka.

“It will be a great occasion for us to welcome His Majesty in Dhaka,” he said.

The Brunei Times