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PM Narendra Modi's visit to Brunei marks a significant milestone in the 40-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations, highlighting the strengthening of friendship and cooperation between India and Brunei.
PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Brunei marks a significant milestone in the 40-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations, highlighting the strengthening of friendship and cooperation between India and Brunei.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Brunei on Tuesday for a bilateral visit, expressing eagerness to enhance commercial and cultural ties. He was greeted with a ceremonial welcome and is set to meet Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah at Istana Nurul Iman Palace.
Commissioned by the Sultan in 1981, Istana Nurul Iman, meaning “Palace of the Light of Faith,” is the world’s largest residential palace, according to Guinness World Records.
The Istana Nurul Iman Palace, spanning 200,000 square meters, has hosted significant events, including the 28th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, which was held virtually. The palace boasts 1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms, and features 44 staircases made from 38 types of marble.
It also includes five luxurious swimming pools and a mosque that can accommodate 1,500 worshippers, highlighting its grandeur and dual role as a center of governance and spirituality.
Architecturally, Istana Nurul Iman blends Brunei’s Islamic culture with Malay traditions. Its striking white exterior is accented by golden domes, including a central dome with 22-carat gold. Designed by Khuan Chew, who also worked on Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, the interior is adorned with gold and marble.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted Brunei as a key partner in India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indo-Pacific vision, noting their long-standing friendly relationship and mutual respect on various issues.
This visit is the first bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During his stay, PM Modi will hold extensive discussions on the bilateral relationship and seek new avenues for collaboration with Brunei’s leadership. After Brunei, PM Modi will proceed to Singapore for the second leg of his tour on September 4-5.
