Premier Li Keqiang met with Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, who is on a state visit to China, on Sept 13.

Premier Li said since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brunei 26 years ago, the two countries have enjoyed good bilateral relations, following the principle of mutual respect and equal treatment. “President Xi Jinping held a successful meeting with you, which has outlined the development of the two countries,” said Premier Li.

“China is willing to strengthen political mutual trust with Brunei, expand pragmatic cooperation in trade investment, infrastructure construction, energy resources, finance and technology, as well as people-to-people exchanges, to promote the coordinated development of regional economy,” the Premier said.

He also spoke highly of the constructive role of Brunei in promoting the development of China-ASEAN relations, noting that ASEAN is a priority for China to develop its diplomacy with neighboring countries, and that next year marks the 15th anniversary of the China-ASEAN strategic partnership.

“China will continue to firmly support establishment of the ASEAN community, backing the central position of ASEAN in regional cooperation, and be willing to better connect the Belt and Road Initiative with the development strategy of ASEAN,” the Premier said.

China and ASEAN will jointly promote the new round of East Asian leaders’ meetings this year to achieve fruitful results, which is conducive to regional stability, cooperation and prosperity, he added.

For his part, the sultan said Brunei and China have a profound friendship, with mutual respect and trust. Brunei pays much attention to its relationship with China and hopes to deepen their cooperation in various areas.

Brunei also appreciates China’s support of ASEAN’s development and efforts to build a close relationship with ASEAN.

“I believe the next China-ASEAN Leaders’ Meeting will consolidate ASEAN-China’s relationship and make more achievements in their cooperation,” he said.