MALAYSIAN EMBASSY IN FRANCE HOLDS NATIONAL DAY RECEPTION IN LYON

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Embassy in France held a
national day reception in Lyon where it had established an honorary consulate
last year.

Ambassador S. Thanarajasingam said the celebration, held on Thursday,
was postponed due to the visit of Prime Minister Najib Razak toFrance from Oct 4
to 7.

"It was a historic and successful visit, opening a new chapter in
Malaysia-France relations while strengthening our ties with Unesco. The prime
minister's visit has elevated Malaysia-France relations to a strategic
partnership, bringing both countries even closer," he said in his speech, the
text of which was sent to Bernama Thursday.

Thanarajasingam said the prime minister was deeply touched by the warm
hospitality extended by President Nicolas Sarkozy.

"The Malaysian prime minister and the French president have established a
personal rapport which would be important in our efforts to deepen and broaden
Malaysia-France relations," he added.

French leaders, including Sarkozy, would visit Malaysia next year, he said.

Thanarajasingam took the opportunity to introduce Malaysia's first honorary
consul in Lyon, Regis Van Liefland.

Apart from Lyon, Malaysia also established an honorary consulate in
Marseille last year.
-- BERNAMA