Kazan: His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for the warm welcome and to the Government of the Republic of Tatarstan and people of Kazan for their generous hospitality. His Majesty delivered a titah during the First Plenary Session of the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Centre.

According to Radio Television Brunei, His Majesty also extended sincere condolences to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of the Kingdom of Thailand on the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha. Reflecting on the evolution of the ASEAN-Russia Dialogue Partnership over the past thirty-five years, His Majesty noted its resilience and increasing importance in navigating global transformations. The partnership has strengthened across all three ASEAN Community pillars, demonstrating Russia's commitment to ASEAN's goals of peace, security, and prosperity.

His Majesty emphasized that collaboration has delivered tangible benefits and fostered strong friendships between the peoples of both regions. As ASEAN pursues its Vision 2045, facing a world marked by political tensions, economic divisions, climate challenges, and technological progress, His Majesty underscored the importance of ASEAN-Russia cooperation in strengthening resilience and advancing peace, stability, and prosperity.

Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen, Minister of Foreign Affairs. At the session, His Majesty highlighted the importance of equipping future generations with skills and networks through education, exchanges, and training. He welcomed the Kazan Declaration 2026, which reaffirms the commitment to strengthening the ASEAN-Russia Strategic Partnership, expressing confidence in navigating future challenges with trust and cooperation developed over time.