BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: His Majesty the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and the Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha yesterday consented to attend the Diplomatic Corps Reception in honor of the Monarch’s 68th birthday at The Royal Berkshire Hall, Jerudong Polo and Country Club (JPCC).
Upon arrival, His Majesty and Her Majesty were greeted by the High Commissioners and Ambassadors of friendly nations to the country and spouses, led by the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Victor A. Seleznev, as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
Representing the Diplomatic Corps, His Excellency Victor Seleznev, Ambassador and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam in his welcoming speech stated that thanks to His Majesty’s benevolent leadership, the Sultanate enjoys peace, tranquility and prosperity.
“It is a pleasure to admire the strong sense of determination and will of the Government and people of Brunei Darussalam to unite efforts in work towards prosperity through economic, religious and cultural progresses preserving social harmony and traditional values” said His Excellency Victor Seleznev.
His Excellency further mentioned that over the years, the Diplomatic Corps have witnessed the Sultanate’s “outstanding efforts in creating a world peace and security”, adding that Brunei continues to play its unique role in regional and international affairs, particularly the successful chairmanship of 2013 ASEAN Summit, ©BRUDIRECT.COM reported.
In concluding his statement, His Excellency Victor Seleznev wishes His Majesty and the people of Brunei good health and happiness.
Their Majesties were later consented to a presentation of souvenir followed by meeting the Diplomatic Corps.
Heads of Diplomatic Missions in the nation’s capital have taken into consideration an utmost care shown to the development of national culture and arts and obvious success of local “seniman” in opening up the Sultanate to the knowledge of compatriots the world over.
Therefore it was decided necessary to extend the support to the efforts aimed at promoting Bruneian culture and talented local painters whereby a canvas “Mengungkap Khazanah yang Hilang” (Contemplation on Disappearing Treasures) by a renown painter Ajihis. The latter is a member of Brunei Artists Association.
The painting shows a vision of Kg Ayer, which is a cradle of Bruneian civilization. For many centuries it was the heart of the Sultanate that attracted guests from different countries of the region and beyond, providing them with safety, fresh supplies and friendly atmosphere; attributes that correspond with the country’s name as Abode of Peace.