KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 23 – New Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull Sunday acknowledged the leadership of his Malaysian counterpart Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in fighting terrorism, saying the cooperation between the two countries on the issue “has never been stronger”.

Following their first meeting, on the sidelines of the ongoing 27th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits here, Turnbull said: “I want to acknowledge the Prime Minister (Najib) for the very strong leadership you have been giving in the battle against terrorism. The leadership you have shown as the head of a large Muslim country has been known around the world.”

“I commend you,” remarked Turnbull, who took over as the Australian prime minister in September. At their bilateral meeting, Turnbull and Najib agreed to elevate Australia-Malaysia ties to a strategic partnership. In the Australia-Malaysia Joint Declaration of Strategic Partnership they issued, both leaders expressed grave concern over the rise of non-traditional security threats including terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation.

Australia and Malaysia, according to the declaration, also agreed to strengthen further security cooperation, including through enhanced exchange of intelligence and analyses. The two prime ministers also underscored their support for United Nations efforts towards global peace through the Joint Malaysia-Australia Peacekeeping Training Initiative.

Pocket News

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