Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and the United States (US) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, security, defence and other areas of mutual interest, according to the Malaysian Foreign Ministry.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan held a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings here on Thursday (July 10).

The ministry stated that both sides recognised the significant potential for expanding collaboration into new and emerging areas that could bring tangible benefits to the people of both nations. The longstanding relations between Malaysia and the United States are built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and shared interests, and both parties exchanged views on regional and international developments of common concern. They anticipate continuing their close and constructive engagement in the years ahead.

Earlier, both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation. This marks a key milestone in US support for Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its capabilities in the nuclear energy sector. The MoU facilitates cooperation in technical expertise, regulatory development, human capital training, and the use of nuclear technology in sectors such as agriculture, industry, and healthcare.

The ongoing 58th AMM and Related Meetings are being held under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 with the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’. Over 1,500 delegates from ASEAN member states and the regional bloc’s external partners are participating in 24 ministerial-level meetings spanning four days.

Malaysia was Secretary Rubio’s first and only stop on his inaugural trip to Asia, highlighting the importance of Malaysia-United States relations, said the ministry.