Good UK-Malaysia relations at political level feeding into commerce

There is tangible evidence of the good relations at the political level also feeding into the area of commerce between the United Kingdom (UK) and Malaysia.

British Defense Minister for Equipment, Support, and Technology, Philip Dunne said the economic relationship between the two countries reflects the growing development of ties at the senior political level.

"The visit by Malaysia's Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak) to the UK two years ago, and British Prime Minister (David Cameron) reciprocating that a year ago, has provided a big impetus to much closer political relations between both nations," he added.

Dunne was speaking to reporters after the Eurofighter Typhoon media briefing here today at the 12th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2013).The event which began today, ends on March 30.

He said more visits by British ministers to Malaysia in the last two years had created a significant engagement at the political level, while also strengthening relations from the business perspective.

Dunne said Malaysia is a major investor in the UK, while Britain is also looking to develop its exports to Malaysia, following the decision by both Prime Ministers to double trade links.

On his first visit to the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition, one of the world's largest defence exhibitions, he urged Malaysian companies to participate in the UK's Ministry of Defence contracts.

He said the British government is offering opportunities to Malaysian companies to supply a whole range of equipment for the armed forces.