His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to send a congratulatory message to South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and Prime Minister Hang Seung-soo on the occasion of the country's National Foundation Day.

In the message to the South Korean president, the monarch expressed his satisfaction of the warm friendship and close cooperation between the two countries, and looked forward to working with Lee in strengthening the much-valued relations as close partners in the region.

His Majesty also conveyed his personal best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of South Korea.

In a similar congratulatory message to Han, His Majesty looked forward to working with the South Korean prime minister in developing friendly relations between the two countries, both bilaterally and as partners in regional cooperation.

His Majesty also wished the prime minister continued good health and happiness.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah also sent a separate congratulatory message to Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Yu Myung Hwan on the occasion of the country's National Foundation Day.

In his message, HRH sent his warmest congratulations to Yu Myung Hwan and the government, as well as the people of South Korea, on the National Foundation Day.

HRH also noted the excellent relations between the both countries, while looking forward to the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries next year. - Borneo Bulletin (4th Oct 2008)