Malaysia, South Africa to deepen trade ties with new focus on semiconductors, defence and research
PUTRAJAYA, Oct 25 — Malaysia and South Africa have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in trade, education, defence, scientific research and new areas such as semiconductors and halal agriculture, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The agreement was reached following a bilateral meeting between Anwar and South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa at Kompleks Seri Perdana here today.
“We have agreed that we need to enhance the Malaysian strategy to expand new trading partners while continuing with existing conventional arrangements. That is why, through BRICS, we are committed to expanding trade with Africa and Latin America, while also focusing on intra-Asean trade and strengthening economic ties in Asia,” he said.
Anwar emphasised that South Africa holds a special place in Africa with significant influence as well as economic strength in defence, agriculture and related industries.
“So, we have given assurance that we will continue to collaborate in new areas other than palm oil, including semiconductors, halal, agriculture and defence.
“We are also expanding this cooperation to education and research in universities and scientific institutions, with ministers and administrators from both sides to follow through on implementation,” he added.
