*Amir-Mahathir talks focus on energy and economy
His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamed held talks on Thursday on consolidating and developing co-operation between the two countries in the fields of energy, economy and investment.
The talks were held met at the Prime Minister's office in the Malaysian capital city of Kuala Lumpur, where the Amir arrived on Wednesday on an official visit. This was the first official meeting between the Amir and the Malaysian Prime Minister since Mahathir took office in May this year, Qatar News Agency reported.
The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed co-operation, including in the clean energy sector and assembly of motor vehicles, in which Malaysia has extensive experience.
They agreed to form a joint high committee headed by the foreign ministers of the two countries, in addition to activate the joint economic committee formed in 2009.
The Amir and the Malaysian Prime Minister exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues, including the Yemeni and the Syrian crises.
The meeting also discussed Malaysia's efforts to assist Rohingya's refugees, and the two sides agreed to intensify humanitarian efforts and charity to help them in their ordeal.
The Malaysian Prime Minister affirmed the need to solve the Gulf crisis through dialogue and diplomatic means between the parties concerned.
The talks were attended by members of the official delegation accompanying the Amir and Malaysian ministers and senior officials.
Later the Amir attended a luncheon banquet hosted by Mahathir.
Today, the Amir will honour the winners of Sheikh Tamim Anti-Corruption International Excellence Award during a ceremony in the Malaysian city of Putrajaya in co-operation with the United Nations.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian ambassador to Qatar Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin has hailed the Amir's visit which he said would boost ties and bilateral co-operation.
He told Gulf Times on Wednesday that the total trade between Malaysia and Qatar “has increased twofold in 10 years,” from $320mn in 2007 to $670mn in 2017.
“I am proud to say that the current state of bilateral relations between Malaysia and Qatar is at its highest level as manifested by the exchange of high-level visits. It is envisaged that these visits will enhance Malaysia-Qatar relations especially in trade and investment, education, women and community development, anti-corruption, and also to forge closer personal relations with Qatari leaders.
“I am of the view that His Highness’s second visit to Malaysia will enhance on the opportunity to discuss ways and means and to further strengthen bilateral co-operation between the two countries, as well as exchange views on various issues that are of mutual concern and common interests with the Qatari leaders,” the ambassador added.
