NEW IMMIGRATION SYSTEM WON'T DAMPEN MSIA-BRITAIN RELATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- The new and stricter points-based
immigration system to be enforced by the British government later this month
will not in any way dampen the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and the
country, Foreign Minister Dr Rais Yatim said Tuesday.

He said although the tougher requirements under the new system overseen by
the United Kingdom (UK) Border Agency will make it more difficult for any
nationality to stay in Britain, it will not affect the developed ties between
both countries epecially in education, training, business, and tourism.

"Malaysians instead should also be given special considerations due to our
long relationship with Britian," he told reporters after hosting a luncheon for
Heads of Mission of The African-South of Sahara Region here Tuesday.

He said his ministry is still awaiting for the official report from the
British government concerning the 30,000 Malaysians who are said to be
overstaying in UK.

"The number is only an estimation...detailed facts and figures are yet to
be reported to us," he added.

On other developments, Rais said diplomatic and business relationships
between Malaysia and countries in the African region need to be
enhanced.

"This is because the African continent is rich in natural resources that
could be exploited for the benefit of its own people and others," he
added.

Rais also said that Malaysia-Africa trade volume was recorded at RM16.4
bilion in 2007, an encouraging 30.1 per cent increase from RM12.6 bilion in
2006. (US$1=RM3.50)

-- BERNAMA