(Unofficial Translation)

His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is making a state visit to Korea in a significant year that marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries. I join all Koreans in welcoming His Majesty.

I remember the considerate hospitality His Majesty extended to me when I visited Brunei Darussalam in March. In particular, His Majesty invited all members of the Korean delegation to a state dinner. It was a gesture of special friendship well featured in Korean media coverage. I am very pleased to have an opportunity to reciprocate His Majesty’s hospitality.

Building on the trust and friendship from the past 35 years, our two countries have so far maintained cooperation in infrastructure and energy. Following the opening of the RIPAS Bridge, a symbol of bilateral cooperation, a Korean company is also taking part in building the Temburong Bridge, Brunei’s longest. I feel very proud that a Korean business is part of shaping Brunei’s future.

Our two countries will be able to work together in a greater variety of areas going forward. Potential for bilateral cooperation is limitless from such advanced industries as ICT, smart cities and e-government to national defense and the defense industry.  

In particular, Brunei is pursuing Vision 2035 to create new growth engines, moving beyond being a resource-rich country. If Vision 2035 and Korea's New Southern Policy are implemented harmoniously, we will be able to expand the horizon of our cooperation to new future industries and achieve common prosperity.

I extend my gratitude once more to Brunei, Country Coordinator for ASEAN-Korea Dialogue, for playing a significant role in the preparations for the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit. I hope that the state visit by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah today will serve as an important opportunity to move toward common prosperity not only for our two countries but also for ASEAN.