The Minister of Home Affairs of Brunei and the Chinese Ambassador to Brunei recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. During the event, the Ambassador highlighted the successful synchronisation of the Belt and Road Initiative with Brunei Vision 2035, which has led to a 27.6% year-on-year increase in bilateral trade between the two countries. He also mentioned various projects and initiatives in progress, including the expansion of the Muara Port Container Terminal and the signing of a protocol on Brunei's aquatic products to China. The Ambassador also emphasized the strong cooperation between China and ASEAN, highlighting the 21st China-ASEAN Expo as an example.
Brunei and China Celebrate Landmark Anniversary, Forge Economic Ties
On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Brunei and China reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and economic cooperation.
Background
Brunei and China have maintained a long-standing diplomatic relationship since 1991. Over the years, the two countries have deepened their cooperation in various areas, including trade, investment, energy, and culture.
Recent Developments
At a recent celebration hosted by Brunei's Minister of Home Affairs and the Chinese Ambassador to Brunei, the two sides highlighted the significant progress made in their partnership.
Belt and Road Initiative
China's "Belt and Road Initiative" (BRI) has emerged as a key driver of economic growth and connectivity between China and Brunei. Brunei's Vision 2035, a national development blueprint, is aligned with the BRI's objectives.
Bilateral Trade
The Ambassador reported a 27.6% year-on-year increase in bilateral trade between Brunei and China. This growth has been attributed to several projects and initiatives.
Muara Port Container Terminal
Brunei is expanding its Muara Port Container Terminal with Chinese assistance. This project will enhance the country's maritime infrastructure and support trade growth.
Aquatic Products Protocol
Brunei and China have signed a protocol allowing for the export of Brunei's aquatic products to China. This initiative will boost the country's fisheries sector.
China-ASEAN Cooperation
The Ambassador also emphasized the strong cooperation between China and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). The 21st China-ASEAN Expo was cited as an example of the ongoing collaboration.
FAQs
1. What is the history of Brunei-China relations? A: Brunei and China established diplomatic relations in 1991.
2. What are the key areas of cooperation between the two countries? A: Trade, investment, energy, and culture.
3. What is the impact of the BRI on Brunei-China relations? A: The BRI has aligned with Brunei's Vision 2035, leading to increased economic growth and connectivity.
4. What are the major projects underway between Brunei and China? A: Expansion of the Muara Port Container Terminal and the export of Brunei's aquatic products to China.
5. How is China contributing to ASEAN cooperation? A: China actively collaborates with ASEAN through initiatives such as the China-ASEAN Expo.
On day 1,312 of Russia's war on Ukraine, tensions continue to escalate as Ukrainian drones target a Russian oil pumping station, Russian forces seize three more villages in eastern Ukraine, and NATO increases its presence in the Baltic Sea region. In response to the ongoing conflict, the Ukrainian security service reports that the SBU caused a fire and halted operations in the Chuvashia region, while Russia's military announced its continued advance in Donetsk and Dnipro. Meanwhile, NATO's decision to deploy additional military assets comes after several days of unidentified drone sightings in Denmark and at military bases.
The upcoming India-Australia ODI series has drawn attention for multiple reasons, including the successful return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as white-ball players. Despite being relieved of captaincy, the duo is expected to continue playing in the format until the 2027 World Cup, according to Australia's Travis Head and India's Axar Patel. As both teams gear up for a high-stakes clash, the focus remains on the future of these two icons and their potential to lead India to another ODI World Cup victory.
Pakistani security forces have thwarted a suicide attack targeting their camp in Mir Ali, North Waziristan, after a vehicle loaded with explosives was driven into the perimeter wall. In a separate operation, 34 militants described as "India-backed terrorists" were killed in multiple engagements across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These operations form part of Pakistan's continued efforts to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country under the vision "Azm-e-Istehkam."
Amid an intensified wave of militant activity in Pakistan's northwestern tribal belt bordering Afghanistan, security forces successfully foiled a major suicide attack on a military camp in North Waziristan's Mir Ali area. Four terrorists, including a suicide bomber, were killed in the exchange, with no casualties among security personnel. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of militant activity in the region, with recent counterterrorism operations resulting in the death of 88 militants, including several from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Former US President Donald Trump shared news on his social media platform about a “very productive” phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed progress towards ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump mentioned the possibility of a summit in Budapest involving top advisors from both countries, while also revealing that he will be meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the call and other matters. As India’s economy continues to grow, its luxury market is also thriving with high-end brands investing in the country to meet the increased demand.
Ukrainian President Zelensky is currently in Washington to meet with US President Trump. This meeting comes after Trump had a productive phone call with Russian President Putin, where they agreed to face-to-face talks in Hungary. Trump is considering arming Ukraine with advanced Tomahawk missiles, but stated that the US stockpile must also be preserved. Meanwhile, Trump has promised to update Zelensky on his discussions with Putin and believes that progress has been made.
The Ministry of External Affairs has denied that a phone conversation took place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, contradicting Trump's claim that Modi personally assured him that India would stop purchasing Russian crude oil. Trump had announced this move as a big step, describing that the process had already begun. However, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that there was no discussion between the two leaders during a weekly briefing. This contradiction comes after the last confirmed phone call between the two on 9 October, when they discussed trade negotiations.
President Donald Trump announces plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, following a productive phone call between the two leaders. The talks will include high-level advisers from both sides, led by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, there is little indication of progress in ending the war in Ukraine, and Trump is likely to face pressure from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Washington, D.C. for the US to provide military support to Ukraine.
US and Russian Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have had their first conversation since August, with plans to meet in person in Hungary. They discussed trade and teams from both countries will meet next week. This came a day before Ukraine's President Zelensky's visit to the White House and amid discussions about arming Ukraine with deep-striking Tomahawk missiles. Despite the talks, Ukraine's ambassador to the US says Moscow's recent actions show their real attitude towards peace and call for tougher responses such as sanctions and military reinforcement.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has announced plans for a new anti-drone system in response to ongoing fears of Russian aggression. The proposed "defence roadmap" includes measures such as improving Eastern borders and creating air and space shields. With several European countries facing airspace incursions, the EU is taking steps to be fully prepared for possible conflict by 2030. The announcement comes ahead of talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Trump indicating that the US could provide Ukraine with long-range missiles if the war in Ukraine continues.