Malaysia, Czech Republic Discuss Measures To Strengthen Bilateral Relations

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 16 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's Deputy Foreign Minister Kamarudin Jaffar paid a courtesy call on his Czech Republic counterpart Martin Tlapa in Prague on Feb 14. Among the important issues that were discussed included steps towards strengthening bilateral relations in various fields, such as economy, investment, education and tourism. According to a write up provided by the Foreign Ministry, Kamarudin had welcomed the proposal for the two countries to further strengthen bilateral cooperation by enhancing trade. He also welcomed the plans of the Czech Republic's investment delegation to visit Malaysia in the near future. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues such as cooperation between Malaysia and the Czech Republic through the ASEAN and European Union platforms, as well as current developments in Afghanistan and Myanmar. Malaysia and the Czech Republic have good and friendly bilateral relations. In 2021, the two countries celebrated the 50th anniversary of Diplomatic Relations. The value of bilateral trade in 2021 amounted to RM4.51 billion (RM1 = US$0.239), with an export value of RM3.29 billion and an import value of RM1.22 billion. Malaysia is the largest trading partner of the Czech Republic among ASEAN Member States. Kamarudin is currently on a working visit to the Czech Republic, Austria, Poland and France from Feb 13 to 23. -- BERNAMA