US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice's attendance at the Asean Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur in July helped facilitate diplomatic relations, said foreign affairs ministry parliamentary secretary Ahmad Shobery Cheek.

He told Salahuddin Ayub (PAS-Kubang Kerian) during the Question session that her presence was useful in identifying solutions to the conflict in Lebanon.

"Her presence was positive as we told her about Israeli aggression and of Asean's displeasure over the conflict," he said.

As the US is a member of the UN Security Council, Rice's participation in Asean meetings could be used as a conduit for Malaysia's protests.

In a supplementary question, Salahuddin asked why Malaysia has not been as vocal as neighbouring countries in opposing America's foreign policy.

"The Philippines has kicked the US out from Subic Bay. (Yet) we still welcome them with their nuclear aircraft carriers. Why do we comply with their requests, give them permission when they ask to use our ports?" he asked.

Ahmad replied that Malaysia has no diplomatic ties with Israel. As such, the government pursues relations with the US for diplomatic reasons.

"It isn't easy to meet with the President of the United States, you know. We have diplomatic strength, and this is a result of letting them come here with their aircraft carriers... which is better than what PAS is doing," he said.

In a related answer, Ahmad told the House that Israel may have the right to reject Malaysia's participation in a peace-keeping force in Lebanon, but that the UN mandate is what matters more.

"Germany will take part in the Lebanon mission. Israel is not comfortable (due to Germany's past) with this, but they (Germans) will still go. So will Indonesia. Malaysia should be trusted to play a role in the Middle-East," he added.