Tokyo: His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, emphasized the shared interests and the importance of regional peace and stability between ASEAN and Japan in a titah delivered at the Plenary Session of the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.
According to Radio Television Brunei, During the summit held at Hotel Okura Tokyo, His Majesty underscored the significance of adopting the new Joint Vision Statement and its Implementation Plan to strengthen the ASEAN-Japan partnership, especially amidst current geopolitical uncertainties. His Majesty, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen, stated the importance of adhering to the principles of regionalism and multilateralism in ASEAN and Japan's relationship, based on the United Nations Charter and international law. Highlighting the potential for cooperation in promoting peace and stability for prosperity and development, His Majesty also acknowledged the close cooperation and mutual trust built over five decades between ASEAN and Japan. The summit, opened by His Excellency Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan, and a statement by His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia as Chairman of ASEAN, also included discussions on economic growth, climate change, and the establishment of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. His Majesty welcomed Japan's support for initiatives like the ASEAN Junior Fellowship Programme, aimed at fostering relationships among young leaders, and recognized Japan's expertise in climate change policies and initiatives like the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC). The summit concluded with the adoption of the Joint Vision Statement on ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation and its Implementation Plan, 'Trusted Partners'.