The Ministry of Defence hosted a reception to promote the Brunei Darussalam International Defence Exhibition (BRIDEX) 2009 for about 50 diplomatic missions in the country at the new Ministry of Defence building yesterday morning.

The diplomats comprised high commissioners, ambassadors, defence attaches and representatives from all the Asean countries, and friendly countries like the United States of America, Canada, Australia, Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of South Africa, Japan, Republic of Korea, People's Republic of China, Saudi Arabia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Sultanate of Oman, People's Republic of Bangladesh, Republic of France, Republic of India, United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland, Republic of Ukraine and Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Present at the reception were officials from the Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) which included the Deputy Minister of Defence, Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, the Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Majid bin Mangarshah.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Permanent Secretaries of Defence, Service Commanders and Commandants, Civilian and Military Directors, Senior Officers and Officers of Ministry of Defence and RBAF.

With the full support of the Ministry of Defence, the reception was part of on-going efforts to promote BRIDEX 2009's upcoming events to potential regional and international exhibitors, as well as trade visitors, an initiative by Royal Brunei Technical Services (RBTS) as the appointed event organiser.

The reception programme included a speeches by the Deputy Minister of Defence and the Permanent Secretary of Defence. A briefing by RBTS representative on BRIDEX 2009 was later delivered, followed by a briefing on Defence White Paper Update 2007 by a Senior Officer from the Directorate of Defence Policy, Ministry of Defence.

The reception aimed to provide the attendees and visitors with information on BRIDEX 2009 as well as open up an opportunity to network with counterparts in a relaxed environment.

BRIDEX is an integrated tri-service defence and security exhibition that will bring together some 250 defence and security companies worldwide. BRIDEX 2009's aims to provide a "Unique experience in defence business facilitation" unveiling and showcasing the latest, most innovative and value-enhancing technology solutions in land, naval and aerospace systems. The exhibition is scheduled to take place from August 11 to 15, 2009 at a new venue, the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong.

Later in the afternoon, the Ministry of Defence hosted a sporting event for the diplomatic missions' representatives, allowing a more casual and friendly atmosphere for greater interaction and enhanced networking. The sporting event took place at the Water Sports Centre RBAF, Serasa Beach which also saw the official opening of the jetty, a crucial extension for the centre.

Source: The Brunei Times