1. Minister of Foreign Affairs Chung Eui-yong spoke to Minister of Foreign Affairs II of Brunei Darussalam Erywan Yusof on the phone on April 1, and they exchanged views on ways to strengthen bilateral relations as well as Korea-ASEAN cooperation and discussed regional issues.

2. The two sides agreed to continue expanding bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest including Brunei’s infrastructure projects*, smart cities, and information and communications technology (ICT)**.

 * Daelim Industrial’s participation in building the RIPAS Bridge (2013-2017) and the Temburong Bridge (2015-2019) in Brunei

** A smart city construction project in Brunei’s Kampong Ayer area, the largest floating village in Southeast Asia, and Brunei’s plans to focus on developing fintech and other related fields based on its Digital Economy Masterplan 2025

3. Foreign Minister Chung expressed his hope that Brunei, as this year’s ASEAN Chair, would achieve tangible outcomes in overcoming COVID-19 and in boosting the region’s economic recovery. He also asked for Brunei’s cooperation in carrying out Korea’s New Southern Policy as its implementation will be in full gear this year.

4. Regarding the latest developments in Myanmar, the two Foreign Ministers expressed deep concern over the loss of numerous civilian lives. They agreed on the need to find a peaceful solution reflecting the aspirations of Myanmar citizens.

o Foreign Minister Chung appreciated the work of Brunei Darussalam in organizing an ASEAN high-level meeting to discuss the recent situation in Myanmar as ASEAN Chair and reaffirmed the Korean government’s support for the constructive role of ASEAN.