The diplomatic community is delighted to continue the tradition of hosting His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s birthday reception, said German Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Gerda Winkler, adding that it is also a celebration of their countries’ strong diplomatic ties with the Sultanate.

She also congratulated His Majesty on the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the country’s independence as well as the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations with numerous countries with missions in Brunei. The envoy also praised His Majesty’s many successful foreign trips over the past year as well as Brunei’s diplomatic achievements and steadfast support for ASEAN’s goals while upholding the association’s centrality.

She underlined the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change in Bandar Seri Begawan as an important element of Brunei’s contribution to ASEAN and that the foreign missions look forward to supporting it.

The ambassador also expressed appreciation for Brunei’s support for the international rule of law for the principles of the United Nations Charter and the ASEAN Charter, and of Brunei’s contributions to tackling climate change and protecting biodiversity.

She concluded her speech by wishing His Majesty and other members of the royal family, good health, a long life and much happiness. Following the speech, Gerda presented His Majesty with the gift of a marble gold leaf flower vase, sourced from India, on behalf of the diplomatic corps.

Handcrafted in the tradition of Jaipur in Rajasthan, the vase is adorned with intricate gold leaf work that displays floral motifs from the Indian tradition.

Meticulously polished to a lacquered fish, it exudes timeless elegance of Indian craftsmanship.

His Majesty and the royal entourage subsequently met heads of diplomatic mission and their spouses before leaving the venue.

Currently, 29 countries maintain resident diplomatic missions in the country, working to build cooperation, friendship and mutually-beneficial relations between their countries and the Sultanate.  – Azlan Othman

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin