The United States Pacific Fleet has extended its services to the Bruneian government, making available to the Sultanate a range of capabilities, capacities and resources that have the potential to strengthen the Sultanate's security.

US Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Scott Swift, who was on a visit to the country, said yesterday that the theatre-level component command of the US Navy was "anxious to deepen and expand in any area that Brunei is interested to expand in", including the bilateral military relationship.

His one-day visit following his arrival on Sunday included meetings with some of the country's top brass including officials from the Ministry of Defence (MinDef), Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MoFAT), where opportunities to enhance cooperation were explored.

Describing the fleet as a "tool box" with expertise covering a diversified group of skills, he said Brunei can draw on these resources for important issues, including those that do not have direct links to the Sultanate.

The significance of Brunei's role to the US foreign defence policy, he said, was part and parcel set in the country's leadership role in the region and bilateral participation in international gatherings with the common view that the two allied nations can cooperate to ensure continued prosperity in the region.

He said Brunei has been making a difference in the Asia-Pacific region with the commander praising 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 for the monarch's regional leadership in Asia.

The country's relationship with the United States dates back to 1845 with a visit by the USS Constitution - which is currently being refurbished in Boston and is open for public viewing - to Brunei. In 1850, the two countries concluded a Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Commerce and Navigation that is still in force today.

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

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