M'sia to revive partnership with South Korea through LEP 2.0

SEOUL: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak said Malaysia is looking to invigorate its partnership with South Korea through the second wave of the 'Look East' Policy (LEP 2.0).
This follows the success of the 'Look East' Policy, which has been the basis of a strong partnership between the two countries for more than 30 years.
Malaysia introduced the policy in 1982 to emulate business ethics and techniques from countries such as Japan and South Korea.
"I hope that we can continue to broaden our relations and explore new areas of cooperation – from science and technology to culture and education, including defence.
"With renewed direction and confidence, Malaysia seeks South Korea as an equal partner in the search for greater economic and social development," he said when speaking at the official luncheon hosted by South Korean President Park Guen-Hye at the Cheong Wa Dae (Presidential Blue House) here Wednesday.
The luncheon was also attended by Najib's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.
Najib had earlier held discussions with Park at a bilateral delegation meeting at the Presidential Blue House.
He said the long-standing ties between Malaysia and South Korea had also witnessed a new development in their bilateral relations as the people from the two countries and the corporate sector were now playing a more prominent role in helping to take Malaysia-Korea relations to a new level.
Najib invited President Park to visit Kuala Lumpur next year and expressed confidence that Malaysia and South Korea would continue to advance their cooperation and broaden their strong economic partnership that would be given new energy next year as Asean prepared for greater social and economic integration.
"As the incoming chair of Asean during this critical time, we value South Korea's engagement in the Asia Pacific, including with Asean and the East Asia Summit.
"We welcome South Korea's commitment to a stronger regional architecture, and your support for the Asean Community," he said. – Bernama