Modi’s Landmark Visit to Brunei: Strengthening Defence and Strategic Ties Amid Indo-Pacific Tensions

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 05)

 Analysis of News:   

About Brunei Darussalam (Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan)

Political Features

• Location: Country in Southeast Asia consisting of two unconnected parts, situated on northern coast of island of Borneo.
• Border: Apart from northern coastline on South China Sea, it is completely surrounded by Malaysian state of Sarawak.
• It is a member of Commonwealth and ASEAN.

Geographical Features

• Landforms: Narrow coastal plain in north & rugged hills in south.
• Highest point: Pagon Peak
• Major rivers: Belait, Tutong, and Brunei, Pandaruan etc.
• Climate: Equatorial climate influenced by monsoon systems

  Key Areas of Discussion

• Defence Collaboration: Talks included the potential establishment of a joint working group on defence cooperation. The existing defence relationship, governed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2016 and renewed in 2021, covers regular high-level exchanges, naval visits, training, joint exercises, and participation in each other’s exhibitions.
• Commercial and Cultural Ties: Modi’s visit aims to enhance commercial and cultural relations, reflecting the historical ties between the two nations. The Indian diaspora in Brunei, particularly in sectors like healthcare and education, plays a significant role in strengthening these bonds.

Strategic Importance of Brunei

• Role in Act East Policy: Brunei is a key partner in India’s “Act East” policy and Indo-Pacific vision, particularly as India marks a decade of the “Act East” policy. Brunei’s strategic location and its role in the South China Sea disputes make it a vital ally for India in countering China’s influence in the region.
• Space and Defence Cooperation: Brunei has supported India’s space program, hosting a Telemetry, Tracking, and Command station since 2000. This collaboration extends to defence, with regular naval exchanges and joint exercises underscoring the strategic partnership.

Historical Context

• Diplomatic Relations: The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei. Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, has visited India four times, emphasizing the longstanding and warm relationship between the two nations.

Conclusion

• Modi’s visit to Brunei is a strategic move to deepen ties in defence, commerce, and culture amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
• The visit not only strengthens bilateral relations but also reinforces India’s commitment to its “Act East” policy and its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.