M'SIA READY TO SHARE EXPERTISE WITH U.S. IN TACKLING PIRACY

PUTRAJAYA, May 11 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is prepared to share its expertise
and experience with the United States in tackling piracy, especially in the
Straits of Malacca.

Foreign Minister Anifah Abu Aman conveyed this willingness to US
ambassador to Malaysia James R. Keith at his office in Foreign Affairs, here,
Monday.

Anifah said Malaysia's expertise and experience in tackling piracy had
facilitated communication and cooperation with its neighbours, especially in the
Asean region, over piracy.

"We have the invaluable experience in checking piracy in the Malacca Straits
with our own expertise, and we are prepared to share this (with the US) for the
benefit of both countries," he said after the half-hour meeting with Keith.

He said Malaysia's willingness in this aspect should be followed up with
detailed discussions between the relevant parties of both countries.

Anifah, who is scheduled to visit the US on May 14, said that he and Keith
also discussed issues related to the Middle East, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

"We also touched on the Free Trade Agreement negotiations between Malaysia
and the US which Malaysia hopes will be signed soon," he said.

-- BERNAMA