KUALA LUMPUR: Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's two-day visit to Malaysia that ended on Sunday yielded numerous positive outcomes in reinforcing bilateral ties.
Kishida emphasised Japan's commitment to deepening relations with Malaysia through the Look East Policy while upholding the rule of law and human dignity in the international order.
He pledged increased Japanese investment in Malaysia, with a focus on LNG supply, decarbonisation, and cybersecurity, including 5G technology.
Kishida and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also agreed to implement the Asean-Japan Midori Cooperation Plan and open the University of Tsukuba branch campus next year.
In terms of security and defence, Japan and Malaysia are set to accelerate Official Security Assistance (OSA) coordination and enhance maritime cooperation, including joint training between their armed forces and coast guard agencies.
Recognising Malaysia's strategic importance in regional peace and security, Kishida emphasised the need for strong cooperation.
He also addressed international issues, emphasising Japan's position on the Israeli-Palestinian situation and its commitment to regional stability.
Kishida expressed concern over attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas and affirmed close cooperation with Malaysia on this matter.
Both countries remain committed to addressing North Korea's nuclear and missile issues and various regional challenges, including Ukraine, Myanmar, and nuclear disarmament.
In regional cooperation, Kishida highlighted plans to shape the future of Asean-Japan relations at the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of Asean-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in December, aiming to strengthen Japan-Asean ties.
In summary, Prime Minister Kishida's visit to Malaysia resulted in strengthened bilateral relations, increased investment, and cooperation on various regional and international issues. --BERNAMA