In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng concluded a three-day visit to Brunei on Wednesday. The visit marked a pivotal moment as China and Brunei pledged to elevate their strategic cooperative partnership to new heights.
During his time in Brunei, Vice President Han engaged in separate discussions with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah and Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. These high-level meetings underscored the mutual commitment to deepening ties and expanding cooperation across various sectors.
Han emphasized that under the strategic guidance of both nations' leaders, China-Brunei relations have been progressing steadily. He expressed China's willingness to collaborate with Brunei to implement the important consensus reached by their heads of state. This includes strengthening strategic communication, deepening practical cooperation, and raising bilateral relations to unprecedented levels.
The Vice President also highlighted China's appreciation for Brunei's steadfast adherence to the one-China principle. He assured that China is ready to maintain close high-level exchanges with Brunei and support each other on issues concerning their core interests and major concerns.
Looking ahead, both nations agreed to enhance cooperation on high-quality Belt and Road initiatives. They also plan to upgrade their collaboration in trade, investment, energy, and agriculture, fostering sustainable economic growth and mutual benefits.
China's commitment to East Asia cooperation and support for the centrality of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was also reaffirmed by Han. He expressed China's intent to promote a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future, contributing to regional peace, stability, and development.
Furthermore, Vice President Han indicated China's readiness to work with ASEAN countries, including Brunei, to advance maritime cooperation and negotiate the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. The goal is to transform the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation.
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah reiterated Brunei's commitment to the one-China principle and expressed eagerness to continuously strengthen the strategic partnership with China. He looked forward to deepening cooperation in areas such as economy and trade, energy, food, culture, education, and sports to diversify Brunei's economy.
The Sultan also emphasized Brunei's dedication to ASEAN-China cooperation and the collective effort to address climate change. He highlighted Brunei's willingness to collaborate with China and other ASEAN members to ensure the South China Sea remains a region of peace and stability.
Reference(s):
China, Brunei pledge to enhance partnership, raise ties to new high
cgtn.com
