Hanoi (VNA) – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his visiting counterpart Ishiba Shigeru on January 10 agreed to strengthen ties to ensure regional security based on the rule of law and build robust supply chains, seeking to cement their comprehensive strategic partnership.
As reported by Kyodo News, the two PMs reached the agreement at their meeting in Kuala Lumpur during Ishiba's tour of two Southeast Asian countries, with Malaysia being the first destination.
At their joint press conference following the meeting, Ishiba said one of the utmost priorities for Japan's diplomacy is to deepen ties with Malaysia and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
He said Tokyo will expand security cooperation with Malaysia in such fields as cybersecurity.
Anwar, for his part, expressed hope that Japan can collaborate in Malaysia's energy transition, digitalisation and education.
The two countries upgraded the status of their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2023. Japan sees ASEAN members as critical partners in realising a free and open Indo-Pacific. Meanwhile, Malaysia is the rotating chair of the bloc this year.
Following his visit to Malaysia, the Japanese PM will travel to Indonesia./.
