International Automakers Keen To Be Proton Partner, Says Malaysian Minister

KUALA LUMPUR, July 27 (Bernama) -- Several leading automakers from Europe, China and Japan have expressed their interest to become Proton's strategic partner, says International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamed. He said although the government has left it to the national carmaker to make the decision, there are several critical criteria it has to consider when choosing its strategic partner. "The government wants Proton to ensure its strategic partner has the capability to lift the company once again. "The strategic partner must have the technology, capital and export network," Mustapa told reporters after the ministry's 'Hari Raya Networking with the Private Sector' here Wednesday. He also said the strategic partnership between Proton and a foreign counterpart is necessary to help the company, a small player at the international level, expand its business. About 2,000 people, including orphans and the elderly, attended the celebration. -- BERNAMA