MEMBERS of some 50 diplomatic missions residing in Brunei were at Ministry of Defence yesterday to promote the Brunei International Defence Exhibition & Conference (Bridex) and briefing on Defence White Paper Update 2007.

The reception was part of on-going efforts to promote Bridex 2009 dubbed as a "boutique" defence and security exhibition endorsed by the Ministry of Defence.

During the reception, the Deputy Minister of Defence presented his remarks followed by a welcoming remark by the Permanent Secretary of Defence.

This was later followed by a briefing by Royal Brunei Technical Services (RBTS) representative on Bridex 2009 and subsequently a briefing on Defence White Paper Update 2007 by a Senior Officer from the Defence Policy Directorate.

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

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

RBTS is the appointed organisers of next year's Bridex to continually promote the upcoming event to potential regional and international exhibitors and trade visitors.

Bridex is an integrated tri-service defence and security exhibition that will bring together some 250 defence and security companies worldwide to unveil and showcase their latest, most innovative and value-enhancing technology solutions in land, naval and aerospace systems.

The exhibition is scheduled to take place from August 11 until 15, 2009 at a new venue, the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong.

The Diplomatic Missions were made up of High Commissioners, Ambassadors, Defence Attaches and representatives from all the Asean countries, Australia, Republic of India, United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland and among others.

Meanwhile, 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 of RBAF, Serasa Beach which also saw the official opening of the jetty, a crucial extension for the centre. The Brunei Times