The United States visit of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak proved that the it recognised Malaysia as its key strategic partner and a global political player, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak.

He said the visit was also significant because it coincided with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the US and Malaysia.

“The relations highlighted mutual help in the common interest. How can we help America? With optimism, at the Malaysian delegation meeting with President (Donald) Trump, Najib stated that ‘we have come with (three) value propositions to put on the table. We want to help strengthen the US economy’,” he said in a post today on his official blog.

Salleh said the PM’s determination to bring along the three proposals to the US was great because “we want to enhance the status of America as our trading partner.”

He said that total trade between Malaysia and the US rose by 23.3 percent between May 2016 (RM55.3 billion or US$13.5 billion) and May 2017 (RM68.2 billion or US$15.4 billion).

“With the visit, we are determined to raise total trade to an even higher volume,” he said.

Salleh said that as such, the people were advised to stop spreading propaganda that could undermine the country, such as by saying that Malaysia was a “kleptocracy” and a failed state.

“It’s time that we adopt an optimistic attitude, looking at the PM’s efforts to expand trade with the US as something positive for the country,” he said.

Salleh said Najib’s style of delivery at the bilateral meeting portrayed the Prime Minister’s confidence in his actions to take the country forward, which “makes us proud.”

“America itself has recognised us as a key global political player that contributes to universal peace. Congratulations!” he said.

- Bernama