Malaysia still regards US as important economic partner - PM Najib

Malaysia will always regard United States a partner especially in economic partnership and in fighting violent extremism and terrorism, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Speaking to reporters after his bilateral meeting with Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte at Putra Perdana here today, he said his latest visit to China did not mean Malaysia's relationship with the United States was less important.

"Our (Malaysia) economic partnership with the United States will continue," he said when asked had Malaysia's economic focus moved to China rather than the United States.

Najib said China was already Malaysia's largest trading partner and the time was right for the country to look at various economic opportunities.

China's internet tycoon Jack Ma was appointed as the Malaysian government's digital economy adviser during Najib's recent visit to China.

Najib's third official visit to China last week made historic achievements with the signing of 14 agreements worth RM144 billion. -- BERNAMA