KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the United States remains committed to its ties with Malaysia and Southeast Asia, with both sides agreeing to explore negotiations before the planned imposition of a 25 per cent tariff on Malaysian exports beginning August 1.
Anwar, speaking after his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said Washington has shown openness to Malaysia’s concerns and acknowledged its importance as a regional trade partner. “We raised the issue of tariffs, and Secretary Rubio indicated that there’s still one month left to negotiate.
He recognises Malaysia’s vital role in US trade in this region and promised to give serious consideration to our position,” Anwar said in a recording shared with the media. During the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting hosted by Malaysia.
Anwar also reaffirmed the country’s stance of maintaining balanced relations with all global partners “We don’t have to choose between trade partners. While the US is important, we will also strengthen ties with China, ASEAN countries, and others — all for the benefit of our people and the nation,” he added.
