Paris: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, have emphasized the need for a swift conclusion to the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA) negotiations, aiming for mutual economic benefits.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar shared on the social media platform X that during a phone conversation with Carney, both leaders highlighted the significance of reinforcing the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership. Anwar, currently in Paris on an official visit, reached out to Carney to congratulate him on the Liberal Party’s recent victory in Canada’s federal election.

Both Malaysia and Canada, as part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), are committed to promoting free, open, and multilateral trade that is equitable and inclusive. Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s dedication to strengthening bilateral relations with Canada in strategic areas such as trade and investment, defense cooperation, clean energy, digital transformation, and emerging technologies.

Anwar also expressed appreciation for Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) ongoing participation in the LNG Canada project located in British Columbia. He noted that this collaboration is a strong indicator of energy cooperation between the two nations and holds potential for driving future green and energy transition initiatives.

In conclusion, Anwar extended an invitation to Carney for an official visit to Malaysia, aiming to further enhance the friendship between the two countries.