Strengthening Ties and Supporting Global Causes: A Royal Meeting Between Brunei and Jordan
On Tuesday afternoon, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah of Brunei Darussalam hosted His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Al-Hussein, the President of the Jordan Olympic Committee, at a formal audience in the Sultan’s residence. This high-profile meeting is part of the ongoing visit by Prince Faisal to Brunei from April 13th to 16th, 2025. The visit emphasizes the growing cooperation between Brunei and Jordan, particularly in the realms of sports, culture, and humanitarian support.
A Meeting of Royals: Reaffirming Strong Bilateral Relations
During the Audience Ceremony, both leaders reflected on the strong ties between Brunei and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The two nations have maintained a friendly and mutually beneficial relationship for years, with cooperation spanning various sectors, including education and sports.
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his appreciation for Jordan’s consistent commitment to global humanitarian causes, particularly their support for Palestine. He recognized Jordan’s diplomatic efforts in mediating ceasefire agreements and offering aid to the Palestinian people. This shared commitment to peace and international solidarity was central to the discussions held during the meeting.
“It was an excellent opportunity for both of us to reaffirm the importance of continuing our collaboration, especially as we both aim to contribute positively to global peace and development,” said Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, reflecting on the significance of the dialogue.
His Royal Highness Prince Faisal, for his part, emphasized the importance of these diplomatic ties, which help strengthen not only bilateral relations but also the wider cooperation in the region. His visit to Brunei also serves as a stepping stone for broader discussions on sports diplomacy and cultural exchange.
Spotlight on Sports Diplomacy: Jordan’s Role in Advancing Gender Equality
Prince Faisal’s visit comes during his participation in the 2nd Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Gender Equality Seminar, taking place in Brunei from April 12th to 16th, 2025. The seminar, which focuses on promoting gender equality in sports, is an important aspect of Jordan’s engagement with the international sports community. It aims to address key issues such as empowering women and girls, removing barriers within sports communities, and advancing strategies to ensure equal opportunities at all levels of competition.
The seminar is an excellent platform for participants to share insights and initiatives that can drive real change across the globe. Jordan, with its active role in the Olympic movement and commitment to gender equality, is playing a pivotal part in shaping a more inclusive and equitable sports landscape. Prince Faisal’s leadership in these initiatives aligns with his country’s broader commitment to advancing social causes, including gender equality.
“We are proud to be part of a global conversation that pushes for progress and inclusivity in sports,” said Prince Faisal, underscoring his country’s efforts to create a more equal playing field for all athletes, regardless of gender. His attendance at the seminar is a reflection of Jordan’s dedication to these goals.
Key Figures at the Ceremony
The ceremony was not only a royal meeting between the Sultan and Prince Faisal but also a gathering of key officials from both Brunei and Jordan. In attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, the President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council, and high-ranking government officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd. Yusof, and Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Awang Mohammed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohammed Yunos.
Their presence highlighted the importance of the meeting and the deepened cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the context of regional sports diplomacy and educational exchanges.
A Lasting Impact on International Relations
As the audience concluded, it was clear that the collaboration between Brunei and Jordan extends beyond diplomatic niceties. It serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for small nations to create significant change on the global stage through cooperation, sports, and shared humanitarian efforts.
With both nations showing strong leadership in international matters such as gender equality in sports and their commitment to global peace, the relationship between Brunei and Jordan looks set to continue flourishing in the coming years. Their mutual support for Palestine and shared diplomatic interests create a foundation for even more fruitful collaborations in the future.
As Prince Faisal’s visit to Brunei draws to a close, it marks a new chapter in the strengthening of ties between the two nations—one built on shared values, collaboration, and a mutual desire to foster positive change both at home and internationally.
