The High Commission of Canada in Brunei Darussalam hosted a Canada Day celebration recently with a traditional pancake breakfast at the Radisson Hotel, highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Brunei.
Over 150 guests attended the event, which featured a Canadian breakfast spread including pancakes, maple syrup, poutine, fried eggs and sausages.
Canada is committed to further bolstering friendship and its bilateral relationship with Brunei Darussalam, especially during current uncertain times.
In her remarks, High Commissioner Ambra Dickie underlined Canada’s dedication to building international partnerships and supporting regional cooperation.
“No matter where we look in the world right now, things look a little fractured, disrupted, uncertain. In times like these, more than ever, we all need friends and we need partners, both big and small. Canada is here, and we are a friend to Brunei,” she said.
She further noted ongoing cooperation in multilateral forums such as ASEAN, the CPTPP and the United Nations, with shared efforts to promote trade, diplomacy and regional stability.
“We are working together in ASEAN and looking forward to finalising an ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement. We are working together in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or CPTPP, to lower – not raise- trade barriers,” she said.
“We are working together in the United Nations and elsewhere to encourage de-escalation and find diplomatic solutions to the world’s most complex disputes,” she added.
As her three-year tenure in Brunei comes to an end, the High Commissioner encouraged continued engagement between the two countries, stating:
“Canada is a Pacific nation. We are committed to our work in Brunei and in this region. Canadian companies, alumni and friends of Canada have contributed to the economic and cultural fabric of Brunei. We are here to work alongside you to promote our mutual security and economic prosperity,” she shared.
“Think Canada. We are closer than you could imagine,” she added.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin and spouse Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil were the guests of honour. The High Commissioner also presented them with tokens of appreciation.
The national anthems of Brunei and Canada were performed by young Bruneian pianist Zachary Keasberry, a Gold Award recipient in multiple competitions and current ATCL diploma student.
The event celebrated not only Canadian national identity but also the continued friendship and cooperation between Canada and Brunei.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
