Oman and Brunei Pledge to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation, Investment Ties

Bandar Seri Begawan, The Gulf Observer: Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam hosted a state banquet at Istana Nurul Iman in honour of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman, reaffirming the longstanding friendship and strong bilateral relations between the two countries.

During the banquet, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his immense pleasure and pride in welcoming the Omani monarch and his accompanying delegation to Brunei Darussalam. He described the visit as an important milestone in strengthening relations between the two countries and expanding cooperation in various fields.

The Bruneian Sultan emphasized the importance of consolidating bilateral partnerships and investment cooperation to open new avenues for collaboration and create opportunities for mutual development.

In his address, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik expressed his gratitude to Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the Royal Family, and the Government and people of Brunei Darussalam for the exceptionally warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

Recalling his previous visit to Brunei in 2014, the Omani monarch said the warmth of the reception and the opportunity to experience the country’s rich heritage and traditions had remained cherished memories. He described the longstanding relationship between Oman and Brunei as a friendship founded on sincerity, mutual affection, goodwill and enduring brotherly ties.

Sultan Haitham highlighted the shared Islamic faith, respect for traditions, strong family and community values, and the commitment of both nations to pursuing modernization while preserving their cultural identities.

He also commended Brunei Darussalam’s historical legacy and achievements under Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s leadership, noting the country’s efforts to preserve its distinctive heritage while advancing the welfare and aspirations of its people.

Referring to the development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties, Sultan Haitham expressed satisfaction over the steady expansion of cooperation across various sectors, particularly in economic and investment fields.

He noted that the visit provided an important opportunity to review the progress achieved in bilateral relations and explore new prospects for cooperation in education, culture, investment and other areas contributing to the prosperity and well-being of both peoples.

The Omani monarch also underscored the importance of strengthening people-to-people contacts, particularly among younger generations, to ensure that the longstanding friendship between the two nations continues to flourish in the future.

Emphasizing their shared commitment to sustainable national development, Sultan Haitham said Oman and Brunei were determined to prepare their societies for future challenges while remaining firmly rooted in the fundamental values and traditions that shape their national identities.

Concluding his address, Sultan Haitham reiterated his appreciation for the hospitality extended by the Bruneian leadership and expressed his wishes for Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s continued good health and happiness, as well as lasting stability, peace and prosperity for the people of Brunei Darussalam.

The state banquet was attended by members of the official Omani delegation and senior officials of Brunei Darussalam.