PUTRAJAYA, Feb 27 – Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong will undertake a two-day working visit to Malaysia beginning Monday to advance the bilateral relations and to promote Australia’s interests in a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
She will be hosted by Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, where during the visit both Ministers will exchange views on various issues of mutual concern, including ASEAN, Myanmar and the trilateral security pact involving Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS).
Wong is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and meet with Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli as well as attend private programmes arranged by the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, a statement from Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry said.
The visit signifies a firm commitment by both countries to further strengthen ties and would further augment existing collaborations under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).
Both sides have deep cooperation in various sectors, including defence, science and technology, education, counter-terrorism, trade and investments, among others, the statement read.
Wong in a media release said her visit to Malaysia will reaffirm the shared priorities under CSP.
“I look forward to hold introductory meetings with members of the new Malaysian Government, including the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Economy.
“These meetings will focus on advancing our significant trade and economic links, cooperation on defence and regional security, and the close ties between our peoples,” she said.
She said Australia is committed to working with Malaysia to support ASEAN’s vital contribution to regional peace and security.
“I look forward to working with my counterparts on how we can address contemporary international challenges, including strengthening the multilateral system, food and energy security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” she said.
