His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday attended the official welcoming ceremony at the presidential palace, Rashtrapati Bhawan. His Majesty was greeted by President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and other senior Indian ministers.

At the presidential palace, His Majesty was welcomed by the President and the Prime Minister of the Republic of India at the Yellow Drawing Room.

His Majesty was introduced to Indian dignitaries followed by the introduction of members of the official delegation of Brunei Darussalam to the President and Prime Minister of India.

Before leaving the palace, His Majesty had a photo opportunity with both the President and the Prime Minister.

In view of the wet weather conditions, the official welcoming ceremony was moved inside the palace and the ruler's scheduled visit to Rajghat Samadhi, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, had to be cancelled.

Later, His Majesty received in audience E Ahamed, the Minister of State for External Affairs, at a leading hotel in New Delhi where His Majesty is residing. - Borneo Bulletin (22nd May 2008)