Hun Sen Congratulates Brunei Leaders on National Day, Highlights Strong Bilateral Ties
PHNOM PENH — Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen has extended warm congratulations to the leadership of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of the country’s National Day, reaffirming what he described as a “close friendship and excellent bilateral relations” between the two Southeast Asian nations.
In separate letters addressed to His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and to Abdul Rahman Taib, Speaker of the Legislative Council of Brunei, Hun Sen praised the steady growth of ties between Phnom Penh and Bandar Seri Begawan.
The Senate President emphasized that cooperation between Cambodia and Brunei has continued to flourish, underpinned by mutual respect and shared interests within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) framework.
A Message of Enduring Partnership
In his congratulatory messages, Hun Sen highlighted the importance of sustaining and deepening mutually beneficial cooperation. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration across diplomatic, economic, and institutional channels would help secure a prosperous future for both nations.
The tone of the letters reflected Cambodia’s broader foreign policy approach, which prioritizes regional solidarity and constructive engagement among ASEAN member states.
“Close friendship and excellent bilateral relations” have served as the foundation for expanding cooperation, Hun Sen noted, signaling Phnom Penh’s intention to build upon existing achievements.
Strengthening Parliamentary Cooperation
Beyond executive-level diplomacy, Hun Sen placed particular emphasis on legislative collaboration. He stressed the need to strengthen ties between the parliamentary bodies of Cambodia and Brunei, suggesting that closer coordination between lawmakers could further reinforce political trust.
Observers say such parliamentary diplomacy often plays a quiet but significant role in enhancing bilateral relations. Exchanges between legislative institutions can facilitate policy dialogue, encourage best-practice sharing, and foster long-term institutional links that complement government-to-government engagement.
Hun Sen’s call for deeper parliamentary collaboration aligns with ongoing efforts within ASEAN to promote legislative dialogue as a pillar of regional stability.
Regional Stability in Focus
The congratulatory message also carried a broader regional undertone. As Southeast Asia navigates economic recovery challenges and evolving geopolitical dynamics, stable and cooperative relationships among member states remain central to ASEAN’s cohesion.
By reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to partnership with Brunei, Hun Sen underscored Phnom Penh’s support for unity and enduring stability within the region.
Brunei’s National Day, commemorated annually in February, marks a significant moment of national pride for the oil-rich sultanate. For Cambodia, the occasion provided an opportunity to publicly reaffirm diplomatic goodwill and shared aspirations for continued growth.
Best Wishes for Leadership and People
Concluding his message, Hun Sen extended best wishes for the health and continued success of Brunei’s leaders, as well as lasting prosperity for its people.
The gesture reflects a tradition of diplomatic courtesy among ASEAN nations, where National Day celebrations often serve as occasions to renew commitments to friendship and cooperation.
As Cambodia and Brunei move forward, both countries appear intent on reinforcing their partnership — not only through formal diplomatic channels but also through strengthened legislative engagement and sustained regional collaboration.
In an increasingly interconnected Southeast Asia, such expressions of solidarity underscore a shared belief that stability and prosperity are best achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and enduring friendship.
