US Ambassador says Washington respects Malaysia’s sovereign right to join BRICS but stresses its economic future lies with Western supply chains.
KUALA LUMPUR: The United States respects Malaysia’s sovereign right to pursue its own foreign and economic policy, including its interest in exploring opportunities with the BRICS economic grouping.
US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D Kagan stated that Washington understands Malaysia’s motivation to expand trade and investment opportunities globally.
He stressed that Malaysia’s long-term economic prosperity remains anchored in its integration within Western supply chains.
This relationship was strengthened by the recently signed US-Malaysia Agreement on Reciprocal Trade.
Kagan expressed the US deep appreciation of Malaysia’s views on its foreign policy.
He recognised Malaysia has a sovereign right to do what is in its best interest and understands what is driving the interest in BRICS.
The ambassador noted that the US President has been very clear about certain red lines and potential consequences from crossing them.
BRICS is a group comprising eleven countries including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.
Kagan said BRICS might offer some limited economic benefits to Malaysia under certain circumstances.
He emphasised it should not be viewed as conflicting with the country’s deepening economic partnership with the US.
The ambassador does not see it as a zero-sum game for Malaysia.
Malaysia can consider potential economic benefits from involvement with BRICS while strengthening its already strong economic relationship with the US.
He added that Malaysia’s deep integration in Western supply chains has been vital to its economic resilience and global competitiveness.
This integration is particularly strong in sectors such as semiconductors, green technology and advanced manufacturing.
The integration has been reinforced by the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade signed during US President Donald Trump’s official visit to Malaysia last week.
Kagan reiterated that the US remains committed to strengthening bilateral economic cooperation with Malaysia and ensuring continued investor confidence.
President Trump had a wonderful time in Malaysia according to the ambassador.
He was extremely happy with the opportunity to see it firsthand and with the relationship he built with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The US and Malaysia were able to work very well together during the visit. – Bernama
