SEOUL: Kuala Lumpur welcomes Seoul’s proposal to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership to mark the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship next year.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the governments of both countries will discuss the details of the proposal, which will be in line with Malaysia’s intention to tap into South Korea’s strength in advanced technology and innovation.
“To commemorate this important period, we have scheduled for our King a state visit to the Republic of Korea in the third quarter of 2020.
“The visit would certainly highlight the commemorative year and contribute towards consolidation of bilateral ties and people-to-people connectivity, ” said Dr Mahathir in his opening remarks at a bilateral meeting with President Moon Jae-in at the presidential Blue House here yesterday.
At the meeting which lasted almost an hour, the Prime Minister said that apart from the visit by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia is also set to co-host several events including organising a special commemorative reception and a friendly football match between the national teams of both countries.
Commemorative stamps will also be issued while a Malaysian film festival, joint business forum and cultural exhibitions will be held in Seoul.
Dr Mahathir also voiced Malaysia’s support for South Korea’s initiative to establish the International Peace Zone (IPZ) at the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between North Korea and South Korea.
“I believe this is a very constructive initiative and the effort will contribute immensely towards stability and peace in the Korean Peninsula and the region, ” he said.
Meanwhile, his South Korean counterpart said the two countries can expand cooperation in the form of joint response to the fourth industrial revolution, as well as development of smart cities and the halal industry.
“I hope we can also deepen cooperation in specific fields such as information, communications and technology (ICT), defence, public health and small and medium industries, ” said Moon.
Moon said the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030, which was announced recently, demonstrates deep insight into efforts to achieve Malaysian integration and sustainable development while respecting diversity.
“Since the goal of your vision falls in line with my government’s vision of realising an innovative and inclusive nation, I hope we can discuss this today, ” said Moon.
Meanwhile, Malaysia has signed four memoranda of understanding with South Korea.
They were inked in the presence of Dr Mahathir and Moon after their bilateral meeting.
They included intensifying cooperation in information and communications technology; cooperation in digital government; cooperation in healthcare and medical science; and cooperation in the field of water and sewerage management. — Bernama