Deputy Secretary of State Burns Visits Malaysia

December 15, 2011

Deputy Secretary William Burns meeting with Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak in Putrajaya. Also in the meeting are U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Paul W. Jones and Malaysian Ambassador to the U.S., Dato’ Sri Dr. Jamaludin Jarjis. (U.S. Embassy photo)

Kuala Lumpur, December 15 – Deputy Secretary of State William J. Burns departed Kuala Lumpur today following a two-day visit.  His visit is the latest in a series of visits by senior Obama Administration officials, and reflects the importance that the United States places on its relationship with Malaysia as a vital partner in Southeast Asia.

While in Kuala Lumpur, Deputy Secretary Burns met with Prime Minister Najib and Deputy Foreign Minister Kohilan, as well as with civil society representatives, to explore ways to expand U.S. partnerships with Malaysia.  He also delivered remarks at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies on “The United States, Malaysia, and the Rising Importance of the Asia-Pacific.”

Prior to his departure, Deputy Secretary Burns stated, “President Obama, Secretary Clinton and I are committed to building upon our strong, cooperative relations with Malaysia and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The United States seeks to work together with nations across the region to promote economic growth and security.  The United States and Malaysia share common interests in fostering prosperity and peace in the world on the basis of mutual interests and mutual respect.  President Obama and Prime Minister Najib met just last month in Bali and discussed a range of important bilateral and multilateral issues facing our countries.  Looking ahead, the investments we are making now will lead to further peace and prosperity for the citizens of Malaysia, the United States and everyone in the Asia-Pacific region.”