His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office this afternoon attended Bilateral Meetings with His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China and with His Excellency Han Zheng, Vice President of the People's Republic of China. During the Bilateral Meeting, His Royal Highness highlighted the close and long-standing friendship between Brunei Darussalam and China, which was forged well before diplomatic ties were established and nurtured through the historical linkages that have continued to bind the two countries together.

China remains Brunei Darussalam's steadfast partner, underscored by close cooperation in trade and investment and active high-level exchanges of visits. His Royal Highness emphasized that the Strategic Cooperative Partnership toward a Brunei-China community with a shared future, agreed in 2025, is a testament to the vision and wisdom of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and President Xi Jinping in building deeper mutual trust and respect. The Official Visit is meaningful as both countries celebrate the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, towards building closer ties and a solid foundation for increased exchanges and collaborative efforts.

Upholding an open, inclusive, and rules-based multilateral system remains key to ensuring long-term stability and prosperity. In this regard, His Royal Highness expressed Brunei Darussalam's commitment to working closely with China in addressing these challenges in a constructive and coordinated manner. China's support, including through the ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations has continued to deliver substantial benefits in the region. Although it has been 5 years since the Dialogue Relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Brunei Darussalam's chairmanship of ASEAN in 2021, this Partnership has continued to deliver concrete benefits to the region.

In ending the sabda, His Royal Highness congratulated President Xi Jinping on China's hosting of the APEC Summit in November 2026 and extended Brunei Darussalam's steadfast support and best wishes in their preparations.

The Bilateral Meeting with His Excellency Han Zheng, Vice President of the People's Republic of China was held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

During the Meeting, His Royal Highness recalled His Excellency's Official Visit to Brunei Darussalam in 2024. Brunei Darussalam and China share an enduring relationship, underpinned by excellent cooperation in various areas which continues to bring tangible benefits and prosperity to both countries. This year marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and His Royal Highness expressed satisfaction that both countries have steadily expanded cooperation in the political, economic, and socio-cultural affairs.

His Royal Highness also acknowledged the steadfast efforts of the Chinese Government in China's remarkable transformation over the years. However, given the current geopolitical uncertainties, His Royal Highness underlined the need for both countries to strengthen cooperation to safeguard our mutual interests to ensure continued sustainable economic development.

After the Meeting, His Excellency Han Zheng, Vice President of the People's Republic of China hosted a dinner banquet held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.