Indian Defence Delegation Visits Brunei to Discuss Energy Security and Maritime Cooperation

An Indian defence management delegation has visited Brunei Darussalam to gain a deeper understanding of the country's long-term development strategy, energy security priorities and maritime cooperation, according to the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS).

The delegation from India's College of Defence Management (CDM) travelled to Brunei as part of its International Strategic Management Tour. During the visit, members held engagements with government departments, military institutions and senior defence officials to explore areas of shared interest between the two countries.

According to the IDS, the delegation visited Brunei's Prime Minister's Office, where it received insights into the country's national development strategy, known as Vision 2035 or Wawasan Brunei 2035. Discussions also covered energy security and maritime coordination, both important areas for regional stability and economic development.

The programme included visits to the Defence Academy and Muara Naval Base. The Indian delegation also interacted with the Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy in the presence of India's High Commissioner to Brunei.

Engagements with key ministries and government departments provided the delegation with a broader perspective on regional security challenges and opportunities to strengthen defence cooperation. The exchanges also highlighted areas where India and Brunei could deepen their institutional and strategic engagement.

India and Brunei look to expand trade ties

The defence delegation's visit comes amid efforts by India and Brunei to strengthen their broader economic relationship. A day earlier, the two countries agreed to explore opportunities to expand bilateral trade, including Indian exports of agricultural products and pharmaceuticals.

The third meeting of the India-Brunei Darussalam Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was held in New Delhi on October 14. The meeting reviewed bilateral trade and economic cooperation and examined ways to create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

The discussions were co-chaired by Amit Verma, Joint Secretary in the Department of Commerce under India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and May Fa'ezah Ahmad Ariffin, Permanent Secretary for Economy and Trade at Brunei Darussalam's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Pharmaceuticals, healthcare and energy emerged as important areas for future collaboration. Both sides discussed the scope for regulatory cooperation, procurement partnerships and healthcare services, with a view to encouraging greater engagement across the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Energy cooperation was another key focus, with discussions covering both traditional and emerging energy partnerships that could support long-term industrial growth.

The two countries are expected to continue these discussions at the next meeting of the India-Brunei Darussalam Joint Trade Committee, which will be held in Brunei Darussalam, according to India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The parallel focus on defence engagement, maritime coordination and trade reflects the wider scope of India-Brunei relations, with both countries exploring opportunities to strengthen strategic cooperation and economic ties.