President Hu Jintao of the People's Republic of China, in a press release issued by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, has sent a congratulatory message to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee National Day of Brunei Darussalam today.

President Hu said, "I would like to extend on behalf of the Chinese Government and People and also in my own name, our warmest congratulations and best wishes to Your Majesty and, through Your Majesty, to the Bruneian government and people.

"In the past 25 years since the founding of Brunei Darussalam, Your Majesty has led the Bruneian people in your relentless efforts and registered splendid achievements in Brunei's national building and economic development."

Brunei Darussalam, he said, has been playing an increasingly important role in both regional and international affairs, and making positive contributions to the regional peace, stability and development.

"I am fully convinced that under Your Majesty's excellent leadership, Brunei Darussalam must be embracing a more brilliant future, and the Wawasan 2035 can be fulfilled certainly and smoothly."

China and Brunei Darussalam, he added, have enjoyed profound friendship and the two countries have seen their friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation expanding in various fields. "I would like to make joint efforts with Your Majesty and elevate the China-Brunei relations to a new height. May Your Majesty enjoy perfect health! May Brunei Darussalam enjoy lasting prosperity and happiness!" he said in the press release.

Meanwhile, Yang Jiechi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, sent his warmest congratulations and best wishes to His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade on the occasion of the National Day.

He said in the past 18 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brunei Darussalam, great progress has been achieved in the China-Brunei relations and friendly cooperation has constantly been broadened and enhanced in various fields between the two countries. "I firmly believe that with the joint efforts of both sides, more fruits will be yielded in the China-Brunei good neighbourly and friendly cooperation. I stand ready in close collaboration with Your Royal Highness to incessantly push forward the China-Brunei relations." - Borneo Bulletin (23rd Feb 2009)