THE Brunei-Australia Memorial was unveiled yesterday to honour Australian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the World War II for Brunei to be the liberated nation-state today and symbolises the friendship between the two countries.
"I think it (the memorial) encapsulates the fact that we have an excellent relationship between our two countries," Australian Minister for Veterans' Affairs told local media yesterday during the unveiling of the war memorial at Muara beach.
Alan Griffin said that relations between the two nations drew long before the start of diplomatic relations in 1984 and were formed in the "drama" that is World War II.
"It also symbolises the strong ties that had been built over the last 20 years, particularly as Brunei as a nation has grown and taken its place amongst the nations of the region."
"We value the ties we have with Brunei," he added.
Brunei's Deputy Minister of Defence Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the ties between the two countries have developed in strength.
This was indicated by regular interactions with increasing avenues of cooperation in the areas of culture, education, health, trade, air services, counter-terrorism and defence.
"Australia has also been, until now, very forthcoming in its policy towards this region and we are really appreciative of that," he added.
Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yasmin said that the memorial also commemorated the soldiers as they played a significant role in establishing the initial ties between our two countries.
"This commemoration allows us to acknowledge the struggle, the hurt and pain, the courage and bravery of the 20th Australian Infantry Brigade of the Ninth division, who had, with the cooperation of the people of Brunei on June 10, 1945 landed on the beaches at both ends of Brunei Bay and successfully led the allied liberation of Brunei," the deputy minister said.
"(This memorial) serves as a reminder for us Bruneians and especially for our future generations of the importance of our friendship and bonds with the Australians and how vital it is for us to uphold and strengthen these relations, knowing how significant Australia's contributions are to our country."
He went on to say that the memorial could be seen as another defining moment in the course of the growing relationship, especially since the ties of diplomacy between Brunei and Australia is entering its silver jubilee next year.
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