Sydney: Brunei Darussalam has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering friendly international relations to ensure regional peace and security. This was asserted by the Deputy Minister for Security and Law at the Prime Minister’s Office during the 6th Sub-Regional Meeting on Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime (SRM) held in Sydney, Australia.
According to Radio Television Brunei, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Sufian bin Haji Sabtu led the country’s delegation and emphasized the critical role of regional cooperation in addressing terrorism and violent extremism. Brunei Darussalam, alongside Thailand, is set to co-chair the Senior Officials’ Counter-Terrorism Policy Forum under the SRM this year.
The meeting also highlighted Brunei Darussalam’s efforts in tackling transnational crime, particularly with the involvement of the Narcotics Control Bureau in a multilateral operation targeting an international drug smuggling ring. This operation demonstrated the commitment of Brunei’s agencies, especially the Narcotics Control Bureau, to protecting citizens from the threat of illicit drugs, aligning with the nation’s ‘Zero-Tolerance Approach.’
In a preceding bilateral meeting with His Excellency Tony Burke, Australia’s Minister of Home Affairs, Cyber Security, the Arts, and Immigration and Citizenship, both nations expressed satisfaction with their enduring cooperation. Discussions also explored ways to enhance collaboration on issues of mutual importance, including border and maritime security. The Brunei delegation also included Awang Zulhusam bin Haji Abdul Samad, Acting Permanent Secretary for Security and Law, Prime Minister’s Office.