Minister for Asia and the Pacific is in Malaysia for a two-day
visit focusing on counter terrorism, security and
business links.
During his visit, Mr Sharma will meet the Malaysian Deputy
Foreign Minister Dato’ Reezal Merican for talks on security and
our shared values as members of the Commonwealth.
Mr Sharma will emphasise the opportunities for the UK and
Malaysia to work together as the successive hosts of the next two
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to revitalise
this unique network.
He will also discuss counter terrorism and extremism cooperation
in the region with Deputy Home Affairs Minister Datuk Nur Jazlan
Mohamed. They will discuss strengthening the UK’s partnership
with Malaysia and the region, including sharing expertise and
lessons learned, and building capacity.
Minister for Asia said:
The UK and Malaysia are global partners in security and have a
shared interest in tackling the terrorist threat. I am
delighted that the UK is increasing our counter extremism
activity in South East Asia, working with important
international allies. Malaysia is a key partner for the UK on
this agenda – ideally placed in the region and a modern and
moderate Islamic nation. We believe it has a unique leadership
role to play in championing greater cooperation in South and
South East Asia.
With the UK hosting the next Commonwealth Heads of Government
Meeting (CHOGM) in 2018 and Malaysia the one after that in
2020, we have a unique opportunity to work together on issues
like trade and human rights, and on supporting emerging
Commonwealth nations to reach their full potential.
During his visit, the Minister will also meet the Malaysian
Minister for Women, Family and Community Development Dato’ Sri
Hajjah Rohani Abdul Karim. He will hear from Opposition and civil
society members and senior business representatives, and will
hold an Islamic Finance roundtable.
