Good ties with all countries crucial, says Anwar

 The prime minister says Malaysia’s neutral and open approach is important to safeguarding its national interests.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim speaking at the Jalinan Mesra Madani programme at the compound of Masjid Ar-Rashid in Ipoh, Perak, today. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today stressed Malaysia’s commitment to strong international relations while independently determining its policies, including those related to the global energy crisis.

Anwar said this neutral and open approach is important to safeguarding the country’s national interests, especially as the war in the Middle East continues to put pressure on the global economy.

He also noted that Malaysia’s strong relations with Arab and Gulf countries, including Iran, allow continued communication and cooperation, while ensuring that shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz remain open.

“Although Malaysia is not a large nation, we are grateful that all the Arab and Gulf countries involved have reached out to us, including the president of Iran.

“We must be friends with everyone … Malaysia is a free and independent country, and we decide our own policies,” Bernama reported him as saying at a programme in Ipoh, Perak, today.

On Tuesday, Iran’s ambassador to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi, said at least seven Malaysian-owned vessels are expected to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz without any transit charges.

Iran has virtually closed the key waterway for oil and gas since US and Israeli strikes on the country began on Feb 28. The resulting fuel shortage and surge in oil prices have become a focal point of the war.

The Iranian parliament is working on a draft bill that would impose a fee on vessels seeking safe passage through the strait, with payments of as much as US$2 million being sought from vessels as an informal toll.

“It is no problem as Malaysia is a friendly country, and friendly countries can use the strait.

“Of course, Malaysian ships are free to pass. We will not charge,” New Straits Times quoted Valiollah as saying. - FMT