Kuala Lumpur, 22 September 2022 (TDI): The Deputy Foreign Minister of Malaysia and Parliamentarian, Kamarudin bin Jaffar held a farewell luncheon for outgoing Ambassadors. Its purpose was to bid farewell to the Ambassadors of Thailand and the Republic of Korea (ROK) who have just ended their mission in Malaysia.

During the luncheon, Minister Kamarudin expressed his gratitude to the two Ambassadors for their efforts. As a response, Ambassador Lee Chi Beom of the Republic of Korea and Thailand’s Ambassador, Chainarong Keratiyutwong also thanked the Minister of Malaysia for the luncheon.

During the meeting, Minister Kamaruddin discussed bilateral ties between Malaysia and ROK, and Thailand. He also highlighted opportunities to tighten these relations. Accordingly, the Ambassadors also exchanged views on strengthening ties in the domain of security and health.

Bilateral Relations between Malaysia and Thailand

Malaysia and Thailand enjoy cooperation in a number of fields. This includes partnerships for trade and investment, education, training, and security.

The official state of these diplomatic relations commenced after the independence f Malaysia. Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, had Thai ancestry and maintained very cordial relations during his term in office from 1957 to 1969.

Reciprocally, Thailand also maintained friendly bilateral relations. Additionally, the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) provided more opportunities for both countries to maintain bilateral relations.

Additionally, both countries see an upward trend in trade partnerships. Even during the pandemic time period, the total trade value of US$24.08 billion in 2021. Representatives of both countries and heads also look for possible opportunities to strengthen these ties.

Also Read: Korea establishes large-scale Factory in Malaysia

Bilateral Relations between Malaysia and ROK

Malaysia and the Republic of Korea established formal diplomatic relations in February 1960. Since then. both countries have collaborated in various fields to strengthen bilateral ties.

In 2018, Malaysia stood as the 14th largest trade partner of the ROK. Their bilateral trade volume reached almost US$20 billion in 2018. Moreover, both countries also enjoy people-to-people exchange which reached more than 1 million in 2018 bilaterally.

This year also marks the 62nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between both countries. Both countries look forward to strengthening these ties in the future.

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