Philippines, Brunei vow to strengthen cooperation

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - President Benigno Aquino III and Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah today are committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation between their two countries.

Hassanal's state visit is part of the preparations for Brunei's assumption of the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"We commit to enhancing cooperation with Brunei and with all Southeast Asian states, not only through economic and cultural engagements, but also through dialogue for maritime," Aquino said during the ceremonial toast in Malacanang, the presidential palace.

He also thanked Brunei for hosting 21,000 Filipinos who have been living and working there.

"Mr. President, as ASEAN chair for this year, Brunei will continue to work closely with the Philippines towards achieving concrete outcomes in economic growth and social progress, and in promoting regional peace and stability," said the Sultan of Brunei.

Hassanal also assured Aquino of Brunei's continuous support for the ongoing peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the largest Muslim rebel group in the country.

Brunei is part of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, which has been overseeing the ceasefire agreement between the Philippine government and the MILF.