UK Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West Commits To Strengthening Malaysia-UK Ties

By V.Sankara

KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- The United Kingdom’s (UK) Minister for Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, has reaffirmed the strong ties between Malaysia and the UK, emphasising the potential for deeper collaboration in trade, technology, healthcare, and education.

West, who is on her maiden two-day visit to Malaysia starting Monday (March 10), underscored the UK’s commitment to expanding bilateral relations, aligning with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s vision to strengthen partnerships with key nations like Malaysia.

“Keir Starmer, who is our Prime Minister, is very keen for us to develop good ties with countries like Malaysia, so that we can do more trade, do more economic development because we have a great relationship in terms of education.

“We can deepen our relationship even further around technology, Artificial Intelligence, exchanges on health, and some of the pharmaceutical interests here in Malaysia,” she told Bernama after attending the Commonwealth Observance Day event at the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) here, Monday.

West highlighted the importance of diplomatic engagement and people-to-people connections, emphasising that Malaysia and the UK share a Westminster-style parliamentary system, presenting opportunities for collaboration in governance and the rule of law.

"As both countries operate under a similar system, we can work together on strengthening legal frameworks in an increasingly uncertain world. This includes areas such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for maritime security, climate legislation ahead of the next COP Summit, and advancing policies for cleaner oceans and environmental protection," she said.

She also highlighted the need for innovation in tackling climate challenges, acknowledging the economic pressures faced by many nations.

During her visit, West also held bilateral talks with Deputy Foreign Minister, Datuk Mohamad Alamin, and engaged with Malaysian businesses in sectors such as urban planning, healthcare, and banking, underscoring the UK's interest in expanding economic ties and investment opportunities.

The event, themed 'Together We Thrive,' brought together High Commissioners, community leaders from Commonwealth nations, and distinguished Malaysians to reflect on the importance of collaboration and mutual support in addressing global challenges.

West also introduced the winner of the British High Commission’s Ambassador for the Day project at the event.

-- BERNAMA