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.
In a brief meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi discuss mutual concerns and bilateral relations. The meeting took place before the BRICS nations' meeting, where the two countries are part of the emerging economies bloc. The meeting comes at a critical time as tensions rise in West Asia due to conflicts involving Iran and other neighboring countries like Israel and Yemen.
A 4.0 magnitude earthquake hit Vancouver Island and British Columbia's Lower Mainland, causing no damage according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake, which struck at a depth of 52 kilometres, was felt by hundreds of residents in Greater Victoria and Vancouver as well as in Washington state. Last month, an early detection system was activated in B.C. to provide alerts ahead of potential damaging earthquakes, and it is expected to be expanded to parts of Quebec and Ontario later this year. Meanwhile, Members of Parliament in Canada are currently debating a second motion of non-confidence in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, the long-standing relationship between India and Russia has been put under close scrutiny. Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar recently gave a speech at the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York City, highlighting the three key aspects of this relationship: geopolitics, trade, and military partnership. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of this partnership for both countries, especially in terms of addressing external hostile forces. With the Eurasian region being a major global player, the ties between India and Russia have a significant impact on the stability and productivity of both nations.
Seven young men, hailing from Ahmedabad, were tragically killed when the car they were travelling in met with an accident on a national highway connecting Udaipur to Ahmedabad. The lone survivor is currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. The victims were returning from Shamlaji at the time of the accident.
Amidst heavy rains in Mumbai, the BMC declared an emergency holiday for schools and colleges in the city. The decision was made to ensure the safety of students after a "red alert" was issued by the India Meteorological Department predicting extremely heavy rainfall. The civic body also urged citizens to only step out if necessary and to check weather updates and plan accordingly. Heavy rains have caused chaos in the city, with local trains stopping and traffic crawling. Stay updated on the latest business news and stock market updates with Zee Business.
More than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon as a result of Israel's military strikes, with 51 people killed in recent air strikes. This comes as Hezbollah launches rockets towards Tel Aviv and tensions between Israel and Lebanon continue to escalate. As countries around the world urge their citizens to leave the area, aid workers report that those fleeing the violence are facing difficult conditions on the road.
On Thursday, India commissioned its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighaat, into the Navy. The 6,000-tonne submarine will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, and bolster India's nuclear triad capabilities. This development further strengthens India's deterrence capabilities and its "No first-use" policy, with a nuclear-powered submarine serving as a strong deterrent to potential hostile nations. The construction of INS Arighaat involved advanced technology and materials, with indigenous systems and equipment developed by Indian scientists, industry, and naval personnel.
As tensions between Israel and Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah escalate, many fear that it could potentially erupt into a full-blown war. Hezbollah, a political, social, and military powerhouse in Lebanon, has been engaged in a long-standing battle with Israel since its founding in 1982. With support from Iran, Hezbollah poses a formidable threat to Israel and continues to seek its destruction. As the situation intensifies, the world looks on with concern for the potential consequences of this volatile conflict.
In a bold move to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah launched a medium-range ballistic missile at the headquarters of Israel's intelligence agency Mossad. The missile, known as "Qader 1", targeted the Mossad headquarters responsible for assassinating leaders and destroying communication devices. This escalation in confrontations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army comes after recent shelling and attacks on each other's military sites, further fueling tensions in the region.