King Confident Malaysia And Canada Can Enhance Relations

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- King Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin is confident that the historic state visit by Canadian Governor General David Johnston can enhance relations and cooperation between Malaysia and Canada. Tuanku Mizan said since Malaysia achieved its independence in 1957, Canada was among the first few countries to establish diplomatic ties with this country. "Our multi-faceted cooperation over the years is clear proof of this. We hope this visit will pave the way for a greater future for both countries," the King said at the state banquet held in honour of Johnston at Melawati Palace, here, Monday night. Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and former prime minister Abdullah Badawi. Tuanku Mizan also congratulated Johnston for his appointment as the 28th Governor General of Canada and said it was an honour that Malaysia was the first country in the region that Johnston visited since assuming the post. "This is indicative of the strong and warm relations between our two countries," Tuanku Mizan said. He said it was also very heartening to note that the two countries were moving towards more mutually beneficial relations. "This is reflected in the increasing trade and investment between our two countries and we look forward to further collaboration. "We are also delighted by the increase in tourist arrivals between our two countries over the years and that Canada had taken the decision to review the travel advisory against Pulau Sipadan and Pulau Ligitan early this year." With the lifting of this travel advisory, Tuanku Mizan said Malaysia looked forward to receiving more Canadian tourists. Meanwhile, Johnston said Malaysia and Canada had a lot of comman interests and this helped to strengthen relations between the two countries. He also believed that the collaboration in education especially, would give a better future to the younger generation of both countries. Johnston who arrived Sunday for a four-day visit to Malaysia will also make state visits to Vietnam and Singapore from Nov 16 to 22. -- BERNAMA