“I will issue an opinion piece but I hope that the US will regard Malaysia as a reliable partner in the question of trade, investment, security partnership and combating terrorism”
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and the United States may look into forging a bilateral trade arrangement between both countries following the US’ pullout from the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA).
Speaking at a media conference after chairing the Barisan Nasional supreme council meeting on Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said Malaysia was open to the idea.
“There is a possibility for us to look into a bilateral trade arrangement. The present administration (of the US) prefers a bilateral trade arrangement, as opposed to a multilateral one.
“Malaysia is open to it and we will begin with a preliminary discussion,” Najib said when asked on his upcoming visit to the US where he will meet with President Donald Trump.
The Prime Minister said that he will have a one-on-one meeting with Trump, as well as a formal bilateral meeting between delegations representing both countries.
A meeting with US vice-president Mike Pence will also be held, said Najib.
Asked about his message to the US Government, Najib said he will address the issue in a newspaper opinion piece which will be published soon, although he did not give further details.
“I will issue an opinion piece but I hope that the US will regard Malaysia as a reliable partner in the question of trade, investment, security partnership and combating terrorism.”
Source: The Star Online
