PM Anwar Optimistic His Visit To Africa Will Strengthen Relations, Strategic Cooperation

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed confidence that his working visits to Addis Ababa, Johannesburg and Nairobi will be a catalyst for strengthening diplomatic relations and expanding strategic cooperation between Malaysia and African countries.

Anwar said in a Facebook post today that he hoped each negotiation session taking place would be smooth, thus opening up new areas for cooperation that could strengthen economic chains, increase market access and bring real benefits to Malaysians.

“I will bring Malaysia's voice with full confidence and commitment to strengthen bilateral relations and drive new economic, trade and investment cooperation on the African continent.

“Insyallah, this visit will open up more space for strategic progress, expand development opportunities and bring tangible benefits to the people and the country,” he said.

The Prime Minister today departed for Ethiopia, the first stop on a three-nation tour of the African continent, beginning with a three-day official visit to Addis Ababa until Nov 20 at the invitation of his counterpart, Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali.

From Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister will travel to Johannesburg, South Africa for a working visit from Nov 20 to 23 to attend the G20 Leaders' Summit, to be followed by an official visit to Kenya.

-- BERNAMA