Countries Should Not Be Timid To Defend Free Trade -- PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 (Bernama) -- Sovereign countries should not be timid in defending free trade and opposing punitive tariffs or discriminatory policies, said Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said as a sovereign interdependent country, Malaysia took its position on tariffs very clearly, and has been appealing to countries to be more affirmative and more pronounced in their views on free trade and multilateralism.

“Do we agree that there should be punitive tariffs or discriminatory policies? (No,) we don't. Do we support free trade? (If yes), then say it as a policy.

“Of course, you know the limits, but you (still) have to say it. Otherwise, you are not contributing to this new thinking," he said during a question-and-answer session following his keynote address at the Nikkei Forum in Tokyo, Japan Wednesday.

The session was broadcast live on television and social media.

Anwar was asked how ASEAN could effectively address protectionist policies by major powers and internal differences among member states, including whether engagement with groups such as BRICS – comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – form part of a broader strategic diversification.

Anwar said it is of critical importance for ASEAN to continue engaging vibrantly and aggressively with all countries while maintaining its centrality and independent stance.

In Malaysia, he said the country enjoys excellent relations with the United States, its largest trading and investment partner. However, Malaysia disagrees with the unilateral imposition of tariffs.

"Did I say it to President Donald Trump? Of course, although very politely during the (ASEAN Summit) meeting I hosted. We expect the same from other countries, so that we can build consensus.

"Of course, countries will have their own priorities, but it is not a zero-sum game,” he said, adding that it is not true that he is tilting towards any particular country, as perceived by some in the media.

Anwar emphasised that Malaysia's participation in BRICS does not mean abandoning its strong trade and investment ties with the US.

Malaysia will continue to deepen cooperation with BRICS, as well as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which he described as a vibrant grouping with significant progress in technology and energy transition.

-- BERNAMA