Deputy prime minister on working visit to Washington

Purpose of the visit is to sign the Homeland Security Presidential Directive No 6 Arrangement for Malaysia’s participation in the US’s visa waiver programme.

PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will be undertaking a working visit to Washington DC, United States, from October 6–13, 2015. He will be accompanied by his wife Hamidah Khamis and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs.

The purpose of the visit is for the signing of the Homeland Security Presidential Directive No 6 (HSPD-6) Arrangement between Malaysia and the United States, which is among the statutory requirements for Malaysia’s participation in the United States’ visa waiver programme.

During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with Jeh Johnson, Secretary of Homeland Security, as well as other senior members of the United States Administration.

The visit would afford the opportunity for both sides to further strengthen bilateral relations, including security cooperation in the areas of counter-terrorism, trafficking of persons and immigration related matters.

Malaysia and the United States continue to enjoy close and cordial bilateral relations in key areas of cooperation including politics, economy, defence and security.

Total bilateral trade for the period of January to July 2015 were valued at USD19.35 billion, an increase of 6.2 per cent compared to the corresponding period in 2014. Malaysia’s total trade with the United States in 2014 grew 7.4% to USD35.7 billion, compared with USD34.5 billion in 2013.

– BERNAMA