His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to send a congratulatory message to His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI, the King of Sweden.

In the message, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam conveyed his warmest congratulations to His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI and the people of Sweden on the occasion of Flag Day.

His Majesty also wished the Swedish king continued good health and happiness and for the people of Sweden to enjoy progress and prosperity.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah sent a separate congratulatory message to Mr Carl Bildt, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden.

In the message, HRH said, "I have great pleasure in presenting my respects to His Majesty and the royal family, together with my congratulations and best wishes to you and to the government and people of Sweden on Flag Day."

"I much appreciate the friendly ties between our countries and I look forward to continuing to strengthen this friendship," His Royal Highness said in the message.

"I would also like to wish your government and people much success in Sweden's forthcoming presidency of the European Union. As the incoming coordinator of the Asean-EU dialogue, we look forward to working closely with you to continue strengthening our regional cooperation," he added. - Borneo Bulletin (6th June 2009)