Imran Khan wants aid from Saudi Arabia. At the same time, he doesn't want to miff Malaysia. The Pakistani PM is attempting a tricky balancing act. He is in Malaysia to placate Mahathir Mohamad. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why this visit could be a diplomatic disaster.

Gravitas: Why is Imran Khan in Malaysia

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../imran-khan-leaves-for-malaysia-to-placate-pm- mahathir-for-skipping-key-islamic-summit-278403">Imran Khan</a> who is on a visit to Malaysia said his country "will do its best" to buy more palm oil from Malaysia after India pulled out of importing it last month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-january-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-could-hit-nine-year-low-report-276928">India's January palm oil imports from Malaysia could hit nine-year low: Report</a>

The Pakistan prime minister raked up the Kashmir issue during the meeting the Malaysian prime minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-palm-oil-spate-start-a-trade-war-between-india-and-malaysia-278402">Will palm oil spate start a trade war between India and Malaysia?</a>

"We noticed India threatened <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../pak-pm-imran-khan-skips-oic-meet-for- malaysia-trip-278340">Malaysia</a> for supporting the Kashmir cause, threatened to cut palm oil imports," PM Imran Khan said at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

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Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad added that he had discussed the palm oil issue with the Pakistan prime minister.

India had put curbs on import of palm oil from Malaysia after PM Mahathir Mohamad's comment against on the CAA with the Malaysian prime minister criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".

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The Pakistan prime minister who is in damage control mode for not attending the Kuala Lumpur summit due to apparent pressure from the Saudi Crown Prince said he would like to attend the next summit.

"I would like to attend the next KL summit. It will not affect Pakistan's relationship with other Muslim countries. The forum will help promote unity amongst the Muslim ummah," he said, adding,"earlier there was fear that it will divide but there's no fear any longer," the Pakistan prime minister said at the press briefing.

India's ministry of external affairs had earlier dismissed Mahathir's remarks calling it "factually inaccurate" and added that the Malaysian PM "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India" and asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA said.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who is on a visit to Malaysia said his country "will do its best" to buy more palm oil from Malaysia after India pulled out of importing it last month.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who is on a visit to Malaysia said his country "will do its best" to buy more palm oil from Malaysia after India pulled out of importing it last month. Also read: India's January palm oil imports from Malaysia could hit nine-year low: Report The Pakistan prime minister raked up the Kashmir issue during the meeting the Malaysian prime minister. Also read: Will palm oil spate start a trade war between India and Malaysia? "We noticed India threatened Malaysia for supporting the Kashmir cause, threatened to cut palm oil imports," PM Imran Khan said at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. × Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad added that he had discussed the palm oil issue with the Pakistan prime minister. India had put curbs on import of palm oil from Malaysia after PM Mahathir Mohamad's comment against on the CAA with the Malaysian prime minister criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity". × The Pakistan prime minister who is in damage control mode for not attending the Kuala Lumpur summit due to apparent pressure from the Saudi Crown Prince said he would like to attend the next summit. "I would like to attend the next KL summit. It will not affect Pakistan's relationship with other Muslim countries. The forum will help promote unity amongst the Muslim ummah," he said, adding,"earlier there was fear that it will divide but there's no fear any longer," the Pakistan prime minister said at the press briefing. India's ministry of external affairs had earlier dismissed Mahathir's remarks calling it "factually inaccurate" and added that the Malaysian PM "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India" and asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts". "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA said.

Pakistan to help Malaysia in ‘palm oil-war’ with India, 'will do its best' to increase import

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-on-two-day-visit-to-malaysia-after-missing-muslim-nations-summit-278187">a two-day visit to Malaysia</a> to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia.

Prime Minister Khan's visit will contribute to further strengthening the historic Pakistan-Malaysia ties and taking bilateral cooperation to a higher level, the Prime Minister's Office tweeted.

Khan's visit to Malaysia at the invitation of his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad comes after he skipped the Kuala Lumpur summit of some 20 Muslim countries in December attended by leaders from countries like Iran, Turkey and Qatar.

Khan did not attend the summit, reportedly due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia, which had extended liberal financial assistance to Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government to stave off the looming economic crisis, Dawn newspaper reported.

The Express Tribune, quoting sources, reported that the visit of prime minister Khan is aimed at removing misgivings Malaysia may have about Pakistan for skipping the Kuala Lumpur summit.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Imran-khan-news-pak-pm-imran-khan-to-give-indian-airspace-a-miss-during-malaysia-visit-fly-over-china-278209">Pak PM Imran Khan to give Indian airspace a miss during Malaysia visit; fly over China</a>

Pakistan initially confirmed its participation at the summit but changed its mind after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced concerns over it. Riyadh is reported to have viewed the summit as an attempt to create a new Islamic bloc, the reports said.

During his visit to Malaysia, Prime Minister Khan will also highlight the human rights and humanitarian situation in Jammu and Kashmir, his office tweeted on Sunday.

He would also emphasise the importance of "averting risks to regional peace &amp; stability posed by India" and underscore the importance of peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir, it said.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir has already angered India with his provocative comments on Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, prompting New Delhi to impose restrictions on the import of refined palm oil from Malaysia, the top supplier of the commodity to the country.

Khan's two-day working visit is set to further enhance and solidify long-standing brotherly relations between the two nations, Malaysia's official news agency Bernama reported on Monday.

Khan's second visit to Kuala Lumpur since becoming prime minister in August 2018 would include a high-level Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other senior ministers.

The former cricketer-turned prime minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mahathir in Putrajaya on Tuesday morning, the report said.

The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September last.

Khan is also scheduled to address scholars at the Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) on regional peace and security.

The two leaders share great camaraderie as both have similar views in many areas, such as on combatting corruption and issues concerning Muslim ummah like Islamophobia, Palestine and the Rohingya's plight, the report said, avoiding any mention of Kashmir.

Their meeting is expected to discuss on matters of mutual interest and a follow up on Mahathir's March 2019 official visit to Islamabad where both leaders had agreed to elevate Malaysia-Pakistan relations to a strategic partnership that will mark a new level of bilateral cooperation, it said.

The two countries are expected to step up cooperation in the trade of palm oil, agricultural products, retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment, the Bernama report said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on a two-day visit to Malaysia to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday embarked on a two-day visit to Malaysia to placate the country's leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations in Kuala Lumpur, solidify the bilateral strategic partnership and discuss the situation in South Asia. Prime Minister Khan's visit will contribute to further strengthening the historic Pakistan-Malaysia ties and taking bilateral cooperation to a higher level, the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. Khan's visit to Malaysia at the invitation of his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohamad comes after he skipped the Kuala Lumpur summit of some 20 Muslim countries in December attended by leaders from countries like Iran, Turkey and Qatar. Khan did not attend the summit, reportedly due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia, which had extended liberal financial assistance to Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government to stave off the looming economic crisis, Dawn newspaper reported. The Express Tribune, quoting sources, reported that the visit of prime minister Khan is aimed at removing misgivings Malaysia may have about Pakistan for skipping the Kuala Lumpur summit. Also read: Pak PM Imran Khan to give Indian airspace a miss during Malaysia visit; fly over China Pakistan initially confirmed its participation at the summit but changed its mind after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced concerns over it. Riyadh is reported to have viewed the summit as an attempt to create a new Islamic bloc, the reports said. During his visit to Malaysia, Prime Minister Khan will also highlight the human rights and humanitarian situation in Jammu and Kashmir, his office tweeted on Sunday. He would also emphasise the importance of "averting risks to regional peace & stability posed by India" and underscore the importance of peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir, it said. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir has already angered India with his provocative comments on Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, prompting New Delhi to impose restrictions on the import of refined palm oil from Malaysia, the top supplier of the commodity to the country. Khan's two-day working visit is set to further enhance and solidify long-standing brotherly relations between the two nations, Malaysia's official news agency Bernama reported on Monday. Khan's second visit to Kuala Lumpur since becoming prime minister in August 2018 would include a high-level Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other senior ministers. The former cricketer-turned prime minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mahathir in Putrajaya on Tuesday morning, the report said. The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September last. Khan is also scheduled to address scholars at the Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) on regional peace and security. The two leaders share great camaraderie as both have similar views in many areas, such as on combatting corruption and issues concerning Muslim ummah like Islamophobia, Palestine and the Rohingya's plight, the report said, avoiding any mention of Kashmir. Their meeting is expected to discuss on matters of mutual interest and a follow up on Mahathir's March 2019 official visit to Islamabad where both leaders had agreed to elevate Malaysia-Pakistan relations to a strategic partnership that will mark a new level of bilateral cooperation, it said. The two countries are expected to step up cooperation in the trade of palm oil, agricultural products, retail, halal products, automotive parts, energy, science and technology, and telecommunication investment, the Bernama report said.

Imran Khan leaves for Malaysia to placate PM Mahathir for skipping key Islamic summit

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad is one of the more colour political personalities in Southeast Asia.

Mahathir, a medical doctor, was active in politics since his university days but first entered parliament at the age of 39 in 1964 with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). He lost his seat in the next elections but regained his place in parliament in 1974. He rose quickly through the ranks becoming deputy Prime Minister in 1976 and then Prime Minister in 1981.

In the early days, he was a fierce critic of Singapore's leader Lee Kuan Yew calling him "arrogant" and Lee's party "anti-Malay".

Lee was far from the only foreign leader he annoyed. He also gained a reputation for being an outspoken critic of the West and had his run-ins with various countries including Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

He led a boycott of British goods which became known as the "Buy British Last" campaign and was critical of the foreign policy of the United States particularly during the presidency of George W. Bush. Despite this, the US continued to be Malaysia's largest foreign investor at that time.

In the Middle East, he was supportive of the Palestinians and critical of Israel. Some people even accused him of being antisemitic

However, Malaysians love his directness and willingness to take on the "big boys".

He retired from politics after 22 years as Prime Minister in 2003 at the age of 78. He was however not one to ride quietly into the sunset. He was constantly courting controversy by commenting about government policies and decisions. Most just dismissed them as mutterings of an old man who had nothing better to do, assuming that his political days were over.

However, as the public uproar over perceived mismanagement by the government of Prime Minister Razak Najib came to a head, Malaysians sought a leader and saviour who could unite the divided opposition. If the opposition remained split, they would not stand a chance against the well-oiled machinery of the ruling coalition, the Barisan Nasional (BN) who had at that point been in power for 61 years. The rest, they say is history.

When he won the 2018 general elections as head of Pakatan Harapan, the opposition alliance, he became the oldest Prime Minister and head of government in the world. He turns 95 in July this year.

Although, a little more mellow than the fiery politician of the 70s and 80s, he certainly has not shied away speaking his mind and stroking controversy.

Knowing Mahathir, no one in Southeast Asia was surprised that he came out strongly against Prime Minister Modi's decision to scrap the special status for Indian-controlled Kashmir and Jammu, and also against New Delhi's new citizenship law which he perceived as anti-Muslim.

Naturally, the Indian government didn't take kindly to such statements.

Not long after, just about two weeks ago, Reuters reported that India, the largest purchaser of edible oils in the world, has restricted the imports of refined palm oil. Reuters sources added that traders were asked informally to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, saying that this was in retaliation of Mahathir's criticisms of India. Some call it a "trade war".

New Delhi, however, denies targeting Malaysia with any palm oil restrictions. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal was quoted as saying that if any curbs were to be imposed, it would apply to all countries uniformly.

India has been Malaysia's largest buyer of its palm oil for the past five years and bought 4.4 million tonnes in 2019. Malaysia is the world's second-largest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia. Any curbs by India will impact Malaysia severely.

Palm oil which contributed USD11 billion or 3.8 per cent to Malaysia's GDP, is its most important agricultural product.

Bilateral trade between the countries was worth USD17.2 billion in the last fiscal year with India exporting USD6.4 billion and importing USD10.8 billion.

India is the seventh biggest market for all Malaysian exports, and Malaysia's tenth largest trading partner.

The main imports from Malaysia are petroleum and petroleum products, palm oil, wood and wood products, and television and computer monitors. The main Indian exports to Malaysia are light and medium oils and preparations, frozen, boneless bovine meat, aluminium products and copper cathodes.

Malaysian Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok, in charge of palm oil, has indicated that the Malaysian government is looking for dialogue and "engagement" to resolve their differences with India. She also inferred that Malaysia sees this as a trade issue and not a political one.

With New Delhi keen to reduce the trade deficit with Malaysia, Reuters reported that the negotiated solution appears to involve MSM Malaysia, a subsidiary of government-linked palm oil plantation firm FGV Holdings Berhardbuying 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India worth almost USD50 million in the current quarter. It had bought 88,000 tonnes for the whole of 2019.

Malaysia with an economy of USD 358.6 billion, is 13 per cent the size of India's. They are still struggling with the financial troubles caused by the previous administration. The budget deficit was raised to 3.8 per cent in 2018 and set to remain relatively high at 3.4 per cent in 2019 to service various commitments. Government debt is over USD 1 trillion. Public sector projects have been scaled back or delayed.

Relations between Malaysia and India have been friendly in the past. PM Modi was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate PM Mahathir when he ascended to power for the second time. Malaysia is seen as an important country in India's "Look East" policy and seven per cent of the Malaysian population or 2.2 million people are indigenous Indians.

It is unlikely Malaysia was seeking to upset the Indian intentionally. It has more to lose than gain.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad is one of the more colour political personalities in Southeast Asia. Mahathir, a medical doctor, was active in politics since his university days but first entered parliament at the age of 39 in 1964 with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO).

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad is one of the more colour political personalities in Southeast Asia. Mahathir, a medical doctor, was active in politics since his university days but first entered parliament at the age of 39 in 1964 with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). He lost his seat in the next elections but regained his place in parliament in 1974. He rose quickly through the ranks becoming deputy Prime Minister in 1976 and then Prime Minister in 1981. In the early days, he was a fierce critic of Singapore's leader Lee Kuan Yew calling him "arrogant" and Lee's party "anti-Malay". Lee was far from the only foreign leader he annoyed. He also gained a reputation for being an outspoken critic of the West and had his run-ins with various countries including Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. He led a boycott of British goods which became known as the "Buy British Last" campaign and was critical of the foreign policy of the United States particularly during the presidency of George W. Bush. Despite this, the US continued to be Malaysia's largest foreign investor at that time. In the Middle East, he was supportive of the Palestinians and critical of Israel. Some people even accused him of being antisemitic However, Malaysians love his directness and willingness to take on the "big boys". He retired from politics after 22 years as Prime Minister in 2003 at the age of 78. He was however not one to ride quietly into the sunset. He was constantly courting controversy by commenting about government policies and decisions. Most just dismissed them as mutterings of an old man who had nothing better to do, assuming that his political days were over. However, as the public uproar over perceived mismanagement by the government of Prime Minister Razak Najib came to a head, Malaysians sought a leader and saviour who could unite the divided opposition. If the opposition remained split, they would not stand a chance against the well-oiled machinery of the ruling coalition, the Barisan Nasional (BN) who had at that point been in power for 61 years. The rest, they say is history. When he won the 2018 general elections as head of Pakatan Harapan, the opposition alliance, he became the oldest Prime Minister and head of government in the world. He turns 95 in July this year. Although, a little more mellow than the fiery politician of the 70s and 80s, he certainly has not shied away speaking his mind and stroking controversy. Knowing Mahathir, no one in Southeast Asia was surprised that he came out strongly against Prime Minister Modi's decision to scrap the special status for Indian-controlled Kashmir and Jammu, and also against New Delhi's new citizenship law which he perceived as anti-Muslim. Naturally, the Indian government didn't take kindly to such statements. Not long after, just about two weeks ago, Reuters reported that India, the largest purchaser of edible oils in the world, has restricted the imports of refined palm oil. Reuters sources added that traders were asked informally to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, saying that this was in retaliation of Mahathir's criticisms of India. Some call it a "trade war". New Delhi, however, denies targeting Malaysia with any palm oil restrictions. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal was quoted as saying that if any curbs were to be imposed, it would apply to all countries uniformly. India has been Malaysia's largest buyer of its palm oil for the past five years and bought 4.4 million tonnes in 2019. Malaysia is the world's second-largest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia. Any curbs by India will impact Malaysia severely. Palm oil which contributed USD11 billion or 3.8 per cent to Malaysia's GDP, is its most important agricultural product. Bilateral trade between the countries was worth USD17.2 billion in the last fiscal year with India exporting USD6.4 billion and importing USD10.8 billion. India is the seventh biggest market for all Malaysian exports, and Malaysia's tenth largest trading partner. The main imports from Malaysia are petroleum and petroleum products, palm oil, wood and wood products, and television and computer monitors. The main Indian exports to Malaysia are light and medium oils and preparations, frozen, boneless bovine meat, aluminium products and copper cathodes. Malaysian Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok, in charge of palm oil, has indicated that the Malaysian government is looking for dialogue and "engagement" to resolve their differences with India. She also inferred that Malaysia sees this as a trade issue and not a political one. With New Delhi keen to reduce the trade deficit with Malaysia, Reuters reported that the negotiated solution appears to involve MSM Malaysia, a subsidiary of government-linked palm oil plantation firm FGV Holdings Berhardbuying 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India worth almost USD50 million in the current quarter. It had bought 88,000 tonnes for the whole of 2019. Malaysia with an economy of USD 358.6 billion, is 13 per cent the size of India's. They are still struggling with the financial troubles caused by the previous administration. The budget deficit was raised to 3.8 per cent in 2018 and set to remain relatively high at 3.4 per cent in 2019 to service various commitments. Government debt is over USD 1 trillion. Public sector projects have been scaled back or delayed. Relations between Malaysia and India have been friendly in the past. PM Modi was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate PM Mahathir when he ascended to power for the second time. Malaysia is seen as an important country in India's "Look East" policy and seven per cent of the Malaysian population or 2.2 million people are indigenous Indians. It is unlikely Malaysia was seeking to upset the Indian intentionally. It has more to lose than gain.

Will palm oil spate start a trade war between India and Malaysia?

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will embark on a two-day visit to Kuala Lumpur from Monday to placate the Malaysian leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations reportedly under pressure from Saudi Arabia.

The Pakistan Foreign Office on Sunday said "(PM) Khan is visiting Malaysia on February 3-4" on the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

Khan will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Cabinet members and senior officials.

During the visit, the two heads of state would have tete-e-tete followed by delegation-level talks.

They will witness the signing of important agreements/MoUs and have joint press meets.

Prime Minister Khan will also address a think-tank event organised by the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) of Malaysia.

"The prime minister's visit is another sign of robust engagement between Pakistan and Malaysia and the shared commitment to further fortify the strategic partnership between the two countries," said FO.

In line with a common vision, bilateral ties between the two countries have deepened in recent years in trade, investment, industry, defence, education and in various international forums, the FO said.

The FO said the prime minister will share with Mahathir his vision for Pakistan and his government's positive role in bringing regional and international peace . 
Khan's visit is being called a "damage control" exercise by local media.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-declares-national-emergency-to-fight-locusts-278140">Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts</a>

Khan had confirmed Pakistan's participation in the December 19-21 summit hosted by the Malaysian prime minister but skipped the event at the 11th hour due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates - key financial backers of the cash-strapped country.

The summit in Kuala Lumpur was seen by the Saudis as an attempt to create a new bloc in the Muslim world that could become an alternative to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) led by the Gulf Kingdom.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan even visited Islamabad in December last to convey the Saudi leadership's gratitude to Pakistan for not attending the summit.

After pulling out from the event, Khan spoke to his Malaysian counterpart over the phone and offered him to visit after the summit.

It is believed that Khan will use the visit to explain to Mahathir the reason for Pakistan's pull out from the summit.

This is Khan's second visit to Malaysia since assuming office in August 2018. The last visit was in November 2018.

Prime Minister Mahathir had visited Pakistan in March last year and was the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade.

The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September 2019.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will embark on a two-day visit to Kuala Lumpur from Monday to placate the Malaysian leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations reportedly under pressure from Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will embark on a two-day visit to Kuala Lumpur from Monday to placate the Malaysian leadership after he skipped a major summit of Muslim nations reportedly under pressure from Saudi Arabia. The Pakistan Foreign Office on Sunday said "(PM) Khan is visiting Malaysia on February 3-4" on the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Khan will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Cabinet members and senior officials. During the visit, the two heads of state would have tete-e-tete followed by delegation-level talks. They will witness the signing of important agreements/MoUs and have joint press meets. Prime Minister Khan will also address a think-tank event organised by the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) of Malaysia. "The prime minister's visit is another sign of robust engagement between Pakistan and Malaysia and the shared commitment to further fortify the strategic partnership between the two countries," said FO. In line with a common vision, bilateral ties between the two countries have deepened in recent years in trade, investment, industry, defence, education and in various international forums, the FO said. The FO said the prime minister will share with Mahathir his vision for Pakistan and his government's positive role in bringing regional and international peace . Khan's visit is being called a "damage control" exercise by local media. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts Khan had confirmed Pakistan's participation in the December 19-21 summit hosted by the Malaysian prime minister but skipped the event at the 11th hour due to pressure exerted by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates - key financial backers of the cash-strapped country. The summit in Kuala Lumpur was seen by the Saudis as an attempt to create a new bloc in the Muslim world that could become an alternative to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) led by the Gulf Kingdom. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan even visited Islamabad in December last to convey the Saudi leadership's gratitude to Pakistan for not attending the summit. After pulling out from the event, Khan spoke to his Malaysian counterpart over the phone and offered him to visit after the summit. It is believed that Khan will use the visit to explain to Mahathir the reason for Pakistan's pull out from the summit. This is Khan's second visit to Malaysia since assuming office in August 2018. The last visit was in November 2018. Prime Minister Mahathir had visited Pakistan in March last year and was the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade. The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly Session in New York in September 2019.

Pak PM Imran Khan on two-day visit to Malaysia after missing Muslim nations summit

A boy from Tripura has reportedly died from coronavirus in Malaysia. An official word on the report is awaited.&nbsp;

This comes after India on Thursday confirmed the first positive case of coronavirus in Kerala.&nbsp;

The patient was a student of Wuhan University in China, India's government said in a statement. The patient is stable and in isolation at a hospital, the statement added. 
"The patient has tested positive for Novel Coronavirus and is in isolation in the hospital. The patient is stable and is being closely monitored," a PIB statement said.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday addressed media on the coronavirus outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-ready-to-tackle-coronavirus-maintaining-close-contact-with-indians-in-china-mea-277539">India is ready to tackle coronavirus, maintaining close contact with Indians in China, says MEA&nbsp;</a>

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Kumar reaffirmed India's preparedness to tackle the virus. He said that the government is in contact with Indians in China and is trying to evacuate those in the Hubei province.&nbsp;

China is yet to respond to India's request, New Delhi awaits Beijing's approval, Kumar added.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-in-india-kerala-reports-first-confirmed-case-277500">First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive</a>

"The government of India has been conducting a regular review of the situation arising due to the outbreak of coronavirus in China. We have requested to operate two aircraft to China to back Indian nationals from Hubei province. We are waiting for formal approval from the Chinese side," Kumar said.&nbsp;

A boy from Tripura has reportedly died from coronavirus in Malaysia. An official word on the report is awaited. This comes after India on Thursday confirmed the first positive case of coronavirus in Kerala.

A boy from Tripura has reportedly died from coronavirus in Malaysia. An official word on the report is awaited. This comes after India on Thursday confirmed the first positive case of coronavirus in Kerala. The patient was a student of Wuhan University in China, India's government said in a statement. The patient is stable and in isolation at a hospital, the statement added. "The patient has tested positive for Novel Coronavirus and is in isolation in the hospital. The patient is stable and is being closely monitored," a PIB statement said. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday addressed media on the coronavirus outbreak. Also read: India is ready to tackle coronavirus, maintaining close contact with Indians in China, says MEA × Kumar reaffirmed India's preparedness to tackle the virus. He said that the government is in contact with Indians in China and is trying to evacuate those in the Hubei province. China is yet to respond to India's request, New Delhi awaits Beijing's approval, Kumar added. Also read: First confirmed case in India, Kerala student tests positive "The government of India has been conducting a regular review of the situation arising due to the outbreak of coronavirus in China. We have requested to operate two aircraft to China to back Indian nationals from Hubei province. We are waiting for formal approval from the Chinese side," Kumar said.

Coronavirus outbreak: Tripura boy reportedly dies of virus in Malaysia 

India's monthly<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-the-palm-oil-import-row-malaysias-top-refiner-says-it-will-buy-more-indian-sugar-276186"> palm oil imports from Malaysia</a> is expected to hit the lowest level in January in nearly nine years, news agency Reuters reported citing traders and refiners.

The latest development comes as India curbed on palm oil imports from Malaysia after the southeast Asian country's prime minister the recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 and Citizenship Amendment Act.

According to the report, India is set to import less than 70,000 tonnes of palm oil from Malaysia in January which is the lowest since April 2011 and significantly lower than the 253,889 tonnes it imported in January 2019.

The report also added that the imports could be negligible at less than 10,000 tonnes in February as almost every Indian buyer has switched to Indonesia.

In 2019, India imported 4.4 million tonnes of palm oil from Malaysia, with average monthly imports of 367,459 tonnes, Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) data showed.

After Malaysia, Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil.

Palm oil accounts for nearly two-thirds of India's total edible oil imports. India buys more than 9 million tonnes of palm oil annually, mainly from Indonesia and Malaysia.

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat.

(With inputs from Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

India's monthly palm oil imports from Malaysia is expected to hit the lowest level in January in nearly nine years, news agency Reuters reported citing traders and refiners.

India's monthly palm oil imports from Malaysia is expected to hit the lowest level in January in nearly nine years, news agency Reuters reported citing traders and refiners. The latest development comes as India curbed on palm oil imports from Malaysia after the southeast Asian country's prime minister the recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 and Citizenship Amendment Act. According to the report, India is set to import less than 70,000 tonnes of palm oil from Malaysia in January which is the lowest since April 2011 and significantly lower than the 253,889 tonnes it imported in January 2019. The report also added that the imports could be negligible at less than 10,000 tonnes in February as almost every Indian buyer has switched to Indonesia. In 2019, India imported 4.4 million tonnes of palm oil from Malaysia, with average monthly imports of 367,459 tonnes, Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) data showed. After Malaysia, Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil. Palm oil accounts for nearly two-thirds of India's total edible oil imports. India buys more than 9 million tonnes of palm oil annually, mainly from Indonesia and Malaysia. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat. (With inputs from Reuters)

India's January palm oil imports from Malaysia could hit nine-year low: Report

Indonesia has agreed to immediately increase imports of Indian buffalo meat, sugar and auto parts after India boosted purchases of Indonesian palm oil amid a spat with rival supplier Malaysia, two Indian government sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday.

Indonesia and Malaysia account for 85 per cent of the world's palm oil output while India is the biggest buyer of edible oil. India has effectively halted imports of refined palm oil from Malaysia since early January in retaliation for Malaysia's accusation that recent Indian policies discriminate against Muslims.

Indonesia, the world's biggest palm oil producer and exporter, is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of India's row with Malaysia. Indonesian crude palm oil has sold at a premium to Malaysian oil since India this month placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil.

The trade ministers of India and Indonesia, which want to more than double their bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2025, met in Davos on Thursday and agreed to fast-forward trade between them, one of the informed sources said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-palm-import-curbs-to-start-malaysia-indonesia-price-war-souces-273149">India palm import curbs to start Malaysia, Indonesia price war</a>

"This is a goal we agreed upon earlier, now the process accelerates," said the Indian source. Both declined to be named as they were not authorised to talk to the media.

"Starting now, they have promised that they will buy a lot more meat, a lot more sugar and autos/auto parts. Palm oil imports from Indonesia will increase and there are many areas where we will export more."

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The sources declined to give figures.

An Indian government document, reviewed by Reuters, said that Indonesia had "informally agreed" to double the annual quota for Indian bovine meat exports to 200,000 tonnes.

Indian-Indonesian trade was worth $21.2 billion in the last fiscal year that ended in March, $15.84 billion of which comprised Indian purchases.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysia-too-small-to-respond-to-indias-boycott-of-palm-oil-with-trade-retaliation-mahathir-mohamad-275346">Malaysia too small to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation - Mahathir Mohamad</a>

Indonesian Trade Minister Agus Suparmanto will visit India next month to hold further talks on enhancing trade, according to one of the Indian government sources.

A spokeswoman for Indonesia's trade ministry had no immediate comment. An Indian trade ministry spokeswoman did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Indonesia imported 94,500 tonnes of Indian buffalo meat worth $323 million in the 2018/19 fiscal year. It is the third biggest buyer of Indian buffalo meat after Vietnam and Malaysia.

Indonesia, however, bought only 555 tonnes of sugar from India last fiscal year.

"They have now changed some of their norms to let more Indian sugar come in," said one of the sources. "In other areas, there's an ongoing process of discussion on easing regulations or standards, or increasing quotas in these areas."

Malaysia's top sugar refiner told Reuters on Thursday that it would increase purchases of sugar from India, a move that two sources in Malaysia said was part of efforts to placate New Delhi amid the palm spat.

Indonesia has agreed to immediately increase imports of Indian buffalo meat, sugar and auto parts after India boosted purchases of Indonesian palm oil amid a spat with rival supplier Malaysia, two Indian government sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday.

Indonesia has agreed to immediately increase imports of Indian buffalo meat, sugar and auto parts after India boosted purchases of Indonesian palm oil amid a spat with rival supplier Malaysia, two Indian government sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday. Indonesia and Malaysia account for 85 per cent of the world's palm oil output while India is the biggest buyer of edible oil. India has effectively halted imports of refined palm oil from Malaysia since early January in retaliation for Malaysia's accusation that recent Indian policies discriminate against Muslims. Indonesia, the world's biggest palm oil producer and exporter, is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of India's row with Malaysia. Indonesian crude palm oil has sold at a premium to Malaysian oil since India this month placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil. The trade ministers of India and Indonesia, which want to more than double their bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2025, met in Davos on Thursday and agreed to fast-forward trade between them, one of the informed sources said. Also read: India palm import curbs to start Malaysia, Indonesia price war "This is a goal we agreed upon earlier, now the process accelerates," said the Indian source. Both declined to be named as they were not authorised to talk to the media. "Starting now, they have promised that they will buy a lot more meat, a lot more sugar and autos/auto parts. Palm oil imports from Indonesia will increase and there are many areas where we will export more." × The sources declined to give figures. An Indian government document, reviewed by Reuters, said that Indonesia had "informally agreed" to double the annual quota for Indian bovine meat exports to 200,000 tonnes. Indian-Indonesian trade was worth $21.2 billion in the last fiscal year that ended in March, $15.84 billion of which comprised Indian purchases. Also read: Malaysia too small to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation - Mahathir Mohamad Indonesian Trade Minister Agus Suparmanto will visit India next month to hold further talks on enhancing trade, according to one of the Indian government sources. A spokeswoman for Indonesia's trade ministry had no immediate comment. An Indian trade ministry spokeswoman did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Indonesia imported 94,500 tonnes of Indian buffalo meat worth $323 million in the 2018/19 fiscal year. It is the third biggest buyer of Indian buffalo meat after Vietnam and Malaysia. Indonesia, however, bought only 555 tonnes of sugar from India last fiscal year. "They have now changed some of their norms to let more Indian sugar come in," said one of the sources. "In other areas, there's an ongoing process of discussion on easing regulations or standards, or increasing quotas in these areas." Malaysia's top sugar refiner told Reuters on Thursday that it would increase purchases of sugar from India, a move that two sources in Malaysia said was part of efforts to placate New Delhi amid the palm spat.

Indonesia to increase imports from India amid New Delhi-Malaysia spat: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-singapore-democratic-party-to-challenge-fake-news-notices-in-court-271645">Singapore</a>'s interior minister was sued Friday by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-the-palm-oil-import-row-malaysias-top-refiner-says-it-will-buy-more-indian-sugar-276186">Malaysian</a> human rights group in a bid to prevent the city-state from enforcing its law against false information in Malaysia.

Home Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speaks-exclusively-to-singapore-home-minister-k-shanmugam-246928">K. Shanmugam</a>, wielding a new law to fight misinformation, had ordered Lawyers for Liberty to correct last week's post alleging the city-state used a brutal "coup de grace" to finish off botched executions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/singapore-adds-bengaluru-to-its-global-innovation-alliance-255771">Singapore </a>has denied the allegations as "untrue, baseless and preposterous" but the Malaysian rights group stood by its claims and refused to issue a correction notice.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-singapore-democratic-party-to-challenge-fake-news-notices-in-court-271645">Singapore: Singapore Democratic&nbsp;Party to challenge fake news notices in court</a>

Under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-tells-facebook-to-correct-users-post-under-new-fake-news-law-265168">Singapore</a>'s law, failure to comply with a correction directive is an offence punishable with a fine and jail term.

N. Surendran, an advisor for Lawyers for Liberty, said the group were asking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-court-tells-former-pm-najib-to-defend-himself-in-1mdb-linked-case-261264">Malaysian High Court</a> to declare the Singapore directive "null and void" and unenforceable in Malaysia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapores-fake-news-law-takes-effect-as-critics-sound-alarm-253218">Singapore's 'fake news' law takes effect as critics sound alarm</a>

"This is an attempt by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-to-raise-retirement-age-to-65-years-prime-minister-243941">Singapore</a> to encroach upon or to stifle or to crackdown on freedom of speech in our country," Surendran told reporters.

"It is an attempt to reach out their tentacles and impose their own oppressive fake news act on Malaysians issuing statements in Malaysia."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-phone-law-dupes-many-in-singapore-but-wins-support-too-269124">Fake phone law dupes many in Singapore, but wins support too</a>

Under the law, Singaporean authorities can order corrections placed next to posts they deem false. Malaysia repealed a similar power in 2019.

Singapore home affairs ministry officials were not immediately available for comment.

Separately, the country's information minister directed the media regulator to block access in the city-state to the Malaysian rights group's website, where the allegations were originally posted.

The city-state imposes the death penalty -- carried out by hanging -- for crimes such as drug trafficking and murder, and hanged 13 people in 2018, according to official data.

Many of the inmates on death row are from Malaysia, Surendran said.

In a first, a Singapore opposition political party challenged the law in court earlier this month but a judge reserved judgement on the case.

Activists say the Singaporean law is used to stifle criticism ahead of elections.&nbsp;

Since it came into force in October, several opposition figures and activists have been ordered to place a banner next to online posts stating that they contain false information.

Singapore's interior minister was sued Friday by a Malaysian human rights group in a bid to prevent the city-state from enforcing its law against false information in Malaysia.

Singapore's interior minister was sued Friday by a Malaysian human rights group in a bid to prevent the city-state from enforcing its law against false information in Malaysia. Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam, wielding a new law to fight misinformation, had ordered Lawyers for Liberty to correct last week's post alleging the city-state used a brutal "coup de grace" to finish off botched executions. Singapore has denied the allegations as "untrue, baseless and preposterous" but the Malaysian rights group stood by its claims and refused to issue a correction notice. Also read: Singapore: Singapore Democratic Party to challenge fake news notices in court Under Singapore's law, failure to comply with a correction directive is an offence punishable with a fine and jail term. N. Surendran, an advisor for Lawyers for Liberty, said the group were asking the Malaysian High Court to declare the Singapore directive "null and void" and unenforceable in Malaysia. Also read: Singapore's 'fake news' law takes effect as critics sound alarm "This is an attempt by Singapore to encroach upon or to stifle or to crackdown on freedom of speech in our country," Surendran told reporters. "It is an attempt to reach out their tentacles and impose their own oppressive fake news act on Malaysians issuing statements in Malaysia." Also read: Fake phone law dupes many in Singapore, but wins support too Under the law, Singaporean authorities can order corrections placed next to posts they deem false. Malaysia repealed a similar power in 2019. Singapore home affairs ministry officials were not immediately available for comment. Separately, the country's information minister directed the media regulator to block access in the city-state to the Malaysian rights group's website, where the allegations were originally posted. The city-state imposes the death penalty -- carried out by hanging -- for crimes such as drug trafficking and murder, and hanged 13 people in 2018, according to official data. Many of the inmates on death row are from Malaysia, Surendran said. In a first, a Singapore opposition political party challenged the law in court earlier this month but a judge reserved judgement on the case. Activists say the Singaporean law is used to stifle criticism ahead of elections. Since it came into force in October, several opposition figures and activists have been ordered to place a banner next to online posts stating that they contain false information.

Malaysian rights group sues Singapore minister over false news law

Malaysia's top sugar refiner said that it will increase purchases of the commodity from India, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday.

The latest development comes amid the ongoing diplomatic row in which, India decided to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysia-too-small-to-respond-to-indias-boycott-of-palm-oil-with-trade-retaliation-mahathir-mohamad-275346">put a curb on palm oil imports from Malaysia</a> after the southeast Asian country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed spoke out against the recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 which critics say discriminate against Muslims.

According to the Reuters' report, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad will buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million) in the first quarter.

In 2018, the company bought around 88,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysian-pm-expresses-concern-after-india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-274231">Also read | Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row</a>

MSM is the sugar refining arm of the world's largest palm oil producer, FGV Holdings, which is a unit of Malaysian state-owned Federal Land Development Authority or Felda.

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat.

As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution.

India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia.

India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve.

(With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia's top sugar refiner said that it will increase purchases of the commodity from India, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday. The latest development comes amid the ongoing diplomatic row in which, India decided to put a curb on palm oil imports from Malaysia after the southeast Asian country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed spoke out against the recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 which critics say discriminate against Muslims.

Malaysia's top sugar refiner said that it will increase purchases of the commodity from India, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday. The latest development comes amid the ongoing diplomatic row in which, India decided to put a curb on palm oil imports from Malaysia after the southeast Asian country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed spoke out against the recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 which critics say discriminate against Muslims. According to the Reuters' report, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad will buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million) in the first quarter. In 2018, the company bought around 88,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India. Also read | Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row MSM is the sugar refining arm of the world's largest palm oil producer, FGV Holdings, which is a unit of Malaysian state-owned Federal Land Development Authority or Felda. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat. As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution. India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia. India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid the palm oil import row, Malaysia's top refiner says it will 'buy more Indian sugar'

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that Malaysia is a too small of a nation to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation. "We are too small to take retaliatory action.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said that Malaysia is a too small of a nation to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation. "We are too small to take retaliatory action. We have to find ways and means to overcome that," Mahathir told reporters in Langkawi, a resort island off the western coast of Malaysia. India, the world's largest edible oil buyer, this month halted Malaysian palm oil imports after Malaysian PM Mohamad spoke out against recent policies of India including abrogation of Article 370 which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Mahathir again criticised India's citizenship law on Monday, saying he believed it was "grossly unfair", a Reuters report said. India has been Malaysia's largest palm oil market for the past five years, presenting the Southeast Asian country with a major challenge in finding new buyers for its palm oil. Benchmark Malaysian palm futures fell nearly 10% last week, their biggest weekly decline in more than 11 years. Meanwhile, trade ministers from India and Malaysia are likely to meet on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos this week, according to a Malaysian government spokesman. (With inputs from Reuters)

Malaysia too small to respond to India's boycott of palm oil with trade retaliation: Mahathir Mohamad

Recently India taught Malaysia a lesson for commenting on the Citizenship law. The government changed rules to bar the import of palm oil from Malaysia. Now, reports show that Turkey is also on India's radar. Is India weaponising trade? WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: First Malaysia, Now Turkey: Is Indian Government Weaponising Trade?

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysian-pm-expresses-concern-after-india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-274231">New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions</a>, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries.

India's Hindu nationalist government has repeatedly objected to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaking out against recent policies which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Malaysia is a Muslim-majority nation.

India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">last week placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil</a> and has informally asked traders to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil.

Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing sources, that New Delhi could also restrict imports of petroleum, aluminium ingots, liquefied natural gas, computer parts and microprocessors from Malaysia.

However, India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said New Delhi had not imposed any curbs on imports from Malaysia and Turkey, and that the government was not contemplating any restrictions on the two countries.

"This year, we foresee more challenges in some of our major markets," Teresa Kok, Malaysia's primary industries minister who is in charge of palm oil, told an industry conference, referring to India's new palm import rules.

Kok said the Indian high commissioner, the ambassador in Malaysia, was one of the people she was in touch with over the issue. 
It is "important for us to engage with them further through diplomatic channels and stakeholders," she told reporters on the sidelines of the event. "We will continue to engage."

In some good news for Malaysian palm sellers, Bangladesh's farm minister told Reuters his country was open to buying more from Malaysia if it offers competitive rates.

The South Asian country buys mainly from Indonesia, which is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of the Malaysia-India dispute.

Mahathir, the 94-year-old premier who is vocal on issues concerning the Muslim world, ignored a question from Reuters on the spat with India on the sidelines of a separate event on Thursday.

On Tuesday, he said Malaysia was concerned about the palm oil curbs but indicated he would continue to speak out against "wrong things" even if it costs his country financially.

Last month, he criticised India's new religion-based citizenship laws, which critics say discriminate against Muslims, and its policies in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir which is also claimed by Pakistan.

India was Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, buying 4.4 million tonnes. In 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations do not improve, Indian traders say.

To make up for the potential loss, Malaysian officials say they are trying to sell more to countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

But replacing a massive buyer like India will not be easy, and there have been calls for both countries to talk it outputting aside any "personal or diplomatic ego".

The other concern for Malaysia is that following the signing of an initial trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday, China could buy more soy oil from the United States and less Malaysian palm oil. 
&nbsp;

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries.

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries. India's Hindu nationalist government has repeatedly objected to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaking out against recent policies which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Malaysia is a Muslim-majority nation. India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils, last week placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil and has informally asked traders to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil. Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing sources, that New Delhi could also restrict imports of petroleum, aluminium ingots, liquefied natural gas, computer parts and microprocessors from Malaysia. However, India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said New Delhi had not imposed any curbs on imports from Malaysia and Turkey, and that the government was not contemplating any restrictions on the two countries. "This year, we foresee more challenges in some of our major markets," Teresa Kok, Malaysia's primary industries minister who is in charge of palm oil, told an industry conference, referring to India's new palm import rules. Kok said the Indian high commissioner, the ambassador in Malaysia, was one of the people she was in touch with over the issue. It is "important for us to engage with them further through diplomatic channels and stakeholders," she told reporters on the sidelines of the event. "We will continue to engage." In some good news for Malaysian palm sellers, Bangladesh's farm minister told Reuters his country was open to buying more from Malaysia if it offers competitive rates. The South Asian country buys mainly from Indonesia, which is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of the Malaysia-India dispute. Mahathir, the 94-year-old premier who is vocal on issues concerning the Muslim world, ignored a question from Reuters on the spat with India on the sidelines of a separate event on Thursday. On Tuesday, he said Malaysia was concerned about the palm oil curbs but indicated he would continue to speak out against "wrong things" even if it costs his country financially. Last month, he criticised India's new religion-based citizenship laws, which critics say discriminate against Muslims, and its policies in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir which is also claimed by Pakistan. India was Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, buying 4.4 million tonnes. In 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations do not improve, Indian traders say. To make up for the potential loss, Malaysian officials say they are trying to sell more to countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. But replacing a massive buyer like India will not be easy, and there have been calls for both countries to talk it outputting aside any "personal or diplomatic ego". The other concern for Malaysia is that following the signing of an initial trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday, China could buy more soy oil from the United States and less Malaysian palm oil.

As wider trade dispute looms, Malaysia talks to India over palm curbs

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysian-pm-expresses-concern-after-india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-274231">Also read: Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row</a>

The southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns over India's internal matters on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

"We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said.

India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act.&nbsp;

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act).

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the government is intending to confine import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue is probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country keeps on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act). Also read: Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row The southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns over India's internal matters on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially. "We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said. India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India plans to impose new curbs on Malaysia as Mahathir Mohamad continues to comment on CAA

Days after&nbsp;India decided to put curbs on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row</a>, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

"We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said.

India on January 9 decided to put curbs on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-expects-palm-oil-inventory-to-end-year-at-21-million-tonnes-report-269081">palm oil imports</a> from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act.&nbsp;

In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat.

As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution.

India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia.

India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially.

Days after India decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row, the southeast country's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad expressed concerns on Tuesday while also indicating that he would continue to speak even if it costs his country financially. "We are concerned of course because we sell a lot of palm oil to India, but on the other hand, we need to be frank and see that if something goes wrong, we will have to say it. If we allow things to go wrong and think only about the money involved, then I think a lot of wrong things will be done, by us and by other people," Malaysian PM said. India on January 9 decided to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia after New Delhi objected to Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's criticism on Jammu and Kashmir and its new Citizenship Act. In the Kuala Lumpur summit that took place in December 2019, the Malaysian prime minister had criticised the new citizenship act and government's move on Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi reacted to Mohamad's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts". Now, the Indian palm oil importers have effectively stopped all purchases from Malaysia following a diplomatic spat. As Malaysian palm refiners stare at a massive loss of business, Mahathir assured his country that his government would find a solution. India is the world's biggest buyer of edible oils and Malaysia is the second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia. India is also Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, with 4.4 million tonnes of purchases. Now, in 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations don't improve. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad takes a dig at India over palm oil import row

Badminton world number one Kento Momota was among four people lightly injured in a crash in Malaysia on Monday which left their driver dead, reports said, hours after he won the Malaysia Masters tournament.

The accident happened in the early hours on a major highway as the group headed for Kuala Lumpur International Airport in a van, official news agency Bernama reported.

The vehicle crashed into the back of a lorry, which was travelling slowly, and the driver died at the scene, the agency said.

"The victim's body and all the injured were sent to" hospital in the administrative capital Putrajaya, fire and rescue department senior official Norazam Khamis was cited as saying.

The fire and rescue department did not immediately respond to requests for comment and the identity of the others hurt was not immediately clear.

Momota had been in Kuala Lumpur to take part in the Malaysia Masters badminton tournament.

He won easily on Sunday, defeating Denmark's Viktor Axelsen 24-22, 21-11 in a boost for his Tokyo Olympics preparations.

The 25-year-old Japanese enjoyed a stellar 2019, winning a record 11 titles including the World Championships, Asia Championships and All England Open.

Badminton world number one Kento Momota was among four people lightly injured in a crash in Malaysia on Monday which left their driver dead, reports said, hours after he won the Malaysia Masters tournament.

Badminton world number one Kento Momota was among four people lightly injured in a crash in Malaysia on Monday which left their driver dead, reports said, hours after he won the Malaysia Masters tournament. The accident happened in the early hours on a major highway as the group headed for Kuala Lumpur International Airport in a van, official news agency Bernama reported. The vehicle crashed into the back of a lorry, which was travelling slowly, and the driver died at the scene, the agency said. "The victim's body and all the injured were sent to" hospital in the administrative capital Putrajaya, fire and rescue department senior official Norazam Khamis was cited as saying. The fire and rescue department did not immediately respond to requests for comment and the identity of the others hurt was not immediately clear. Momota had been in Kuala Lumpur to take part in the Malaysia Masters badminton tournament. He won easily on Sunday, defeating Denmark's Viktor Axelsen 24-22, 21-11 in a boost for his Tokyo Olympics preparations. The 25-year-old Japanese enjoyed a stellar 2019, winning a record 11 titles including the World Championships, Asia Championships and All England Open.

Badminton world number one Kento Momota injured in Malaysian car crash, driver killed

Indian shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-progresses-to-quarter-finals-of-malaysia-masters-273215">Saina Nehwal</a> on Friday crashed out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-sameer-verma-ousted-from-malaysia-masters-273212">Malaysia Masters</a> after losing in the quarterfinals. 
 
The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games. Marin had dominance in the whole game and came out with an easy triumph in the 30-minute long clash.

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Highlights | <a href="https://twitter.com/CarolinaMarin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarolinaMarin</a> 🇪🇸 pulls out all the stops to overcome Nehwal 🇮🇳 in two straight games 🏸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSBCBWFbadminton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSBCBWFbadminton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MalaysiaMasters2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MalaysiaMasters2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSBCRaceToGuangzhou?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSBCRaceToGuangzhou</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldTour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldTour</a> <a href="https://t.co/9dhVMMoCoc">pic.twitter.com/9dhVMMoCoc</a>
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With Nehwal's loss, India's participation in the competition is over now.

Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pv-sindhu-cruises-to-quarterfinals-of-malaysia-masters-273209">PV Sindhu</a> faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying in straight games 21-16, 21-16. The clash lasted for 36 minutes and the world number two opponent had the upper hand in the encounter. 
 
Sindhu on Thursday thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted 34 minutes.

Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Friday crashed out of Malaysia Masters after losing in the quarterfinals. The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games.

Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Friday crashed out of Malaysia Masters after losing in the quarterfinals. The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games. Marin had dominance in the whole game and came out with an easy triumph in the 30-minute long clash. Highlights | @CarolinaMarin 🇪🇸 pulls out all the stops to overcome Nehwal 🇮🇳 in two straight games 🏸#HSBCBWFbadminton #MalaysiaMasters2020 #HSBCRaceToGuangzhou #WorldTour pic.twitter.com/9dhVMMoCoc — BWF (@bwfmedia) January 10, 2020 × With Nehwal's loss, India's participation in the competition is over now. Earlier in the day, PV Sindhu faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying in straight games 21-16, 21-16. The clash lasted for 36 minutes and the world number two opponent had the upper hand in the encounter. Sindhu on Thursday thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted 34 minutes.

BWF: Saina Nehwal bows out of Malaysia Masters after losing to Carolina Marin

The Indian government has imposed restrictions on the imports of refined palm oil and palmolein. This was done in retaliation against top supplier Malaysia after its criticism of India's actions in Kashmir and new citizenship law. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Ravish Kumar said that only checks and balances would be put in place and imports won't be stopped altogether. #WION #CAA #CitizenshipAmendmentBill #J&K #MEA #Malaysia

WION Dispatch: India restricts imports of refined palm oil after Malaysia's criticism over CAA

India, Malaysia ties&nbsp;are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia.

The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.&nbsp;

India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia.&nbsp;

Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted</a>

New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/factually-inaccurate-india-slams-malaysian-pms-remarks-on-caa-269407">Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA&nbsp;</a>

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act. India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia. Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity". Also read: CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen. Read more: Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India puts curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia following PM Mahathir Mohamad's CAA remark

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit Malaysia later this month in what appears to be the part of damage control effort after Islamabad pulled out of the Kuala Lumpur summit last month, a media report said.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to visit Malaysia later this month in what appears to be the part of damage control effort after Islamabad pulled out of the Kuala Lumpur summit last month, a media report said. A report in The Express Tribune citing official sources said that the visit was due since last month Islamabad pulled out of the Kaula Lumpur conference at the 11th hour after Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries voiced their reservations over the gathering of leaders from host Malaysia, Turkey, Iran and Qatar. The summit was meant to discuss problems facing the Muslim countries and suggest a way forward. But observers saw it as an attempt by Malaysia and other like-minded countries to create a new Islamic bloc, excluding Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations. However, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad had dismissed such reports. The official sources said that it was believed Khan would use the visit to explain Mahathir as to why Pakistan pulled out of the summit. Islamabad is also making efforts to reach out to Turkey. The sources were confident that the scheduled visit of Turkish President Recep Tayab Erdogan to Pakistan next month would help remove any mistrust between the two countries.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan to call on Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad soon for 'damage control exercise'

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942">Vietnam</a> in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad.

The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire.

The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world.

Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country.

Not surprisingly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuela-france-wests-duplicity-196078">France</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ambassador-to-spain-hurt-in-barcelona-mugging-244352">Spain</a> were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa.

Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot.

The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine".

An international magazine in its annual global retirement index has rated Malaysia and Vietnam in Asia among the top-10 nations to retire abroad. The International Living magazine rated Portugal as the top country to retire citing pleasant climate with an "affordable lifestyle" along with quality healthcare, safety rate and "excellent food and wine". The survey also pointed out that "Portugal is the second least expensive country in Europe" making it an ideal country to finally retire. The magazine ranked Malaysia in number seven due to its "idyllic beaches" with the language being an easy mechanism of communication since English was the "unofficial" first language. Cheap food and low living costs counted in Malaysia's favour with affordable medical care being another factor that helped the country to rank among the best retirement destinations in the world. Vietnam was last in the list of top-10 with "high-quality healthcare, good roads, and modern conveniences". The low cost of living also added to Vietnam's charm with friendly people and affordable luxuries. The survey found the country to be a great travel hub with several international flights connecting with the country. Not surprisingly France and Spain were picked at ninth and eighth places respectively with Ecuador being a surprise sixth choice in the list due to its weather and fertile valleys. Interestingly, Columbia in Latin America finished among the top-5 with access to an easy retirement visa. Mexico was ranked number four with Costa Rica with its low cost of living and "top-notch medical care" in no-3 slot. The survey put Panama which is close to the US with "sunny weather" and exciting food options with benefits and discounts for retirees as the no-2 country to retire.

Portugal best country to retire; Malaysia, Vietnam top in Asia: Study

OIC, Malaysia Advise India On Citizenship Law. #Gravitas #WIONEdit #OIC #IndianMuslims

WION Edit: OIC, Malaysia Trying To Fish In Troubled Waters?

Black-listed Zakir Naik refuged by Malaysia. He was spotted at Malaysia summit and shook hand with Malaysian PM Mahathir Bin Mohamad as well. Zakir Naik is basically blacklisted for his hate speeches. #ZakirNaik #HateSpeeches #Malaysia

Black-listed Zakir Naik refuged by Malaysia, spotted at Malaysia summit

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-says-muslim-nations-considering-trade-through-gold-barter-system-to-avoid-sanctions-269452">remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir</a> Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources. &nbsp;

"It was conveyed that such remarks are neither in keeping with the accepted diplomatic practice of non-interference in each other's internal affairs nor with the state of our bilateral relations," government sources said on the matter.&nbsp;

"It was also conveyed that such remarks are both ill-informed and insensitive. Malaysia was asked to take a long-term and strategic view of the bilateral relations," sources added.&nbsp;

India has slammed Malaysian PM for his comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

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Government Sources: The Malaysian Charge d’Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today, in order to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by the Malaysian PM in Kuala Lumpur today at the press briefing. (1/3)
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The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Prime Minister of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">Malaysia’s comment is factually inaccurate</a>" and New Delhi "calls upon Malaysia to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts."

Malaysian PM has reacted over India's CAA law twice in the past.&nbsp;

On Saturday morning Mohamad again commented on the law saying it is unfortunate and "to exclude Muslims from becoming citizens even by due process is unfair. Have voiced our disagreement".

Mahathir was among the few global leaders, along with Turkey's President Erdoğan who were critical of New Delhi after it removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday summoned the Malaysian Charge d’Affaires to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad over the Citizenship Amendment Act, news agency ANI reported quoting government sources. "It was conveyed that such remarks are neither in keeping with the accepted diplomatic practice of non-interference in each other's internal affairs nor with the state of our bilateral relations," government sources said on the matter. "It was also conveyed that such remarks are both ill-informed and insensitive. Malaysia was asked to take a long-term and strategic view of the bilateral relations," sources added. India has slammed Malaysian PM for his comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act. Government Sources: The Malaysian Charge d’Affaires was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today, in order to lodge a solemn protest over the remarks made by the Malaysian PM in Kuala Lumpur today at the press briefing. (1/3) — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2019 × The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Prime Minister of Malaysia’s comment is factually inaccurate" and New Delhi "calls upon Malaysia to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts." Malaysian PM has reacted over India's CAA law twice in the past. On Saturday morning Mohamad again commented on the law saying it is unfortunate and "to exclude Muslims from becoming citizens even by due process is unfair. Have voiced our disagreement". Mahathir was among the few global leaders, along with Turkey's President Erdoğan who were critical of New Delhi after it removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Protest lodged with Malaysia over PM Mahathir Mohamad's remarks on citizenship law: MEA

Prime Minister of Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur summit in Malaysia criticized the Indian Citizenship (Amendment) Act by questioning the necessity of the law. Indian foreign ministry hits back by rejecting all claims and mentioned Indian citizenship law as India's internal matter. #CAA #KualaLumpurSummit #IndianCitizenshipLaw

Indian sends strong message to Malaysia over it's comment on CAA

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Pakistan avoided the Islamic summit held in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-says-muslim-nations-considering-trade-through-gold-barter-system-to-avoid-sanctions-269452">Malaysia </a>as it was pressurised by Saudi Arabia.

It was "unfortunate" that Saudi Arabia "pressures" Pakistan, Erdogan said quoted a Turkish daily.

“Unfortunately, we see that Saudi Arabia pressures Pakistan. Now, there are promises that the country has given to Pakistan regarding the central bank. However, more than that, there are four million Pakistanis working in Saudi Arabia. They (&nbsp;threaten by saying that they )would send (Pakistani workers)&nbsp;back and re-employ Bangladeshis instead,” the Turkish president said.&nbsp;

The four-day Islamic summit hosted by Malaysia was concluded today and the countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt skipped it. Saudi Arabia claimed that the summit undermined the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), an association of 47 Muslim-majority nations.&nbsp;

Pakistan PM Imran Khan was slated to speak at the summit but pulled out from the event at the last minute.

Erdogan also said that Pakistan succumbed to Saudi's wishes "due to its economic difficulties".

"This is not a first for the countries since they have the tendency to put pressure on other countries in doing or not doing things," Erdogan added.&nbsp;

Erdogan also boasted that Turkey will continue its efforts to help other Muslim nations and will cooperate with Malaysia, Qatar, and Iran on regional and global issues. &nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Pakistan avoided the Islamic summit held in Malaysia as it was pressurised by Saudi Arabia. It was "unfortunate" that Saudi Arabia "pressures" Pakistan, Erdogan said quoted a Turkish daily.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that Pakistan avoided the Islamic summit held in Malaysia as it was pressurised by Saudi Arabia. It was "unfortunate" that Saudi Arabia "pressures" Pakistan, Erdogan said quoted a Turkish daily. “Unfortunately, we see that Saudi Arabia pressures Pakistan. Now, there are promises that the country has given to Pakistan regarding the central bank. However, more than that, there are four million Pakistanis working in Saudi Arabia. They ( threaten by saying that they )would send (Pakistani workers) back and re-employ Bangladeshis instead,” the Turkish president said. The four-day Islamic summit hosted by Malaysia was concluded today and the countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt skipped it. Saudi Arabia claimed that the summit undermined the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), an association of 47 Muslim-majority nations. Pakistan PM Imran Khan was slated to speak at the summit but pulled out from the event at the last minute. Erdogan also said that Pakistan succumbed to Saudi's wishes "due to its economic difficulties". "This is not a first for the countries since they have the tendency to put pressure on other countries in doing or not doing things," Erdogan added. Erdogan also boasted that Turkey will continue its efforts to help other Muslim nations and will cooperate with Malaysia, Qatar, and Iran on regional and global issues.

Saudi pressured Pakistan to withdraw from Malaysia summit: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Malaysian PM criticized Indian CAA, India hits back by rejecting Mahathir's claims

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohama</a>d said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them.

"I have suggested that we re-visit the idea of trading using the gold dinar and barter trade among us," Mahathir said, at the end of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-defends-muslim-summit-shunned-by-saudi-slammed-by-oic-269055">Islamic summit </a>in Malaysia.&nbsp;

"We are seriously looking into this and we hope that we will be able to find a mechanism to put it into effect."

It should be noted that Iran has been badly affected by the US-imposed sanctions that were put in place last year. The US allies: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have also cut diplomatic and trade ties with Qatar nearly two and a half years ago over allegations that the country backs terrorism.

The leaders attending the summit agreed that they need to push trade amongst themselves and transact in each other's currencies.&nbsp;

The Malaysian PM praised Iran and Qatar for withstanding economic embargoes and asked the Muslim world to be self-reliant to face future threats.&nbsp;

Mahathir also said that there was concern of Muslims undergoing assimilation in non-Muslim countries.&nbsp;

"We support integration but assimilation to the extent of shedding our religion is unacceptable," the Malaysian prime minister said.

The four-day summit was boycotted by Saudi Arabia, who slammed the event for undermining the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which represents 57 Muslim-majority nations. Malaysia responded to Saudi's claims by saying that it had invited all the OIC members to the summit but only about 20 nations showed up.

In the last day of the event, no joint statement from the members who attended the summit was released.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Saturday that Iran, Malaysia, Turkey and Qatar are considering trading amongst themselves through gold and barter system in a bid to prevent any future sanctions on them. "I have suggested that we re-visit the idea of trading using the gold dinar and barter trade among us," Mahathir said, at the end of the Islamic summit in Malaysia. "We are seriously looking into this and we hope that we will be able to find a mechanism to put it into effect." It should be noted that Iran has been badly affected by the US-imposed sanctions that were put in place last year. The US allies: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have also cut diplomatic and trade ties with Qatar nearly two and a half years ago over allegations that the country backs terrorism. The leaders attending the summit agreed that they need to push trade amongst themselves and transact in each other's currencies. The Malaysian PM praised Iran and Qatar for withstanding economic embargoes and asked the Muslim world to be self-reliant to face future threats. Mahathir also said that there was concern of Muslims undergoing assimilation in non-Muslim countries. "We support integration but assimilation to the extent of shedding our religion is unacceptable," the Malaysian prime minister said. The four-day summit was boycotted by Saudi Arabia, who slammed the event for undermining the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which represents 57 Muslim-majority nations. Malaysia responded to Saudi's claims by saying that it had invited all the OIC members to the summit but only about 20 nations showed up. In the last day of the event, no joint statement from the members who attended the summit was released. (with inputs from Reuters)

Malaysian PM says Muslim nations considering trade through gold, barter system to avoid sanctions

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