BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said on Saturday that the sultanate will continue to foster foreign relationship with other countries, while stressing the need to strengthen the economy and empower the youth.
In his address to mark Brunei's 35th National Day, the Sultan said the country will continue to strengthen the "sincere relationships" it shares with other countries.
"Brunei will also increase economic integration and participation in both the regional and global stage," the Sultan said in the address which was televised on Friday, adding that the country will boost efforts towards achieving regional and international security and stability, "given available capacity."
"This includes providing aid to those in need in the form of humanitarian operations or disaster mitigation relief aid, as well as monitoring and peacekeeping missions," he said.
He also spoke on the importance of strengthening Brunei's cyber security as it continues to venture into the digital era.
Meanwhile, he called on the government to provide the infrastructure and support to push forward the development of the country's youth and economy.
He urged the government to exert efforts to spur Brunei's economic growth through more efficient and prudent management methods.
"The obligation of the government is to facilitate the business environment and generate competent and employable human resource, including strengthening the social security network," he said.
To mark Brunei's National Day, the Sultan attended a national celebration held on Saturday in the capital which featured a march-past and performances by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, the Royal Brunei Police Forces, the public and private sector, schools and non-government organizations.
