Cuban Ambassador Commends Malaysia’s Role in Strengthening Global South Ties

Cuban Ambassador Florentino Batista Gonzalez praised Malaysia’s foreign policy, highlighting its engagement with BRICS and its leadership in ASEAN. He emphasized the necessity for South-South cooperation to tackle global challenges and noted the significant diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Cuba, established since 1975.

In Kuala Lumpur, Cuban Ambassador Florentino Batista Gonzalez commended Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his proactive foreign policy aimed at fostering stronger ties with the Global South. He characterized Malaysia’s engagement with BRICS as a necessary and progressive strategy, indicating that it represents a pragmatic approach for the benefit of the Malaysian populace. The ambassador emphasized the significance of South-South cooperation in addressing common challenges like poverty and tropical diseases, urging countries of the Global South to join forces in their efforts against these issues.

Ambassador Gonzalez acknowledged Malaysia’s influential role within ASEAN, suggesting that it could act as a bridge to Latin America. He noted that Malaysia enjoys considerable respect within the ASEAN framework, which positions it well for furthering dialogue and collaboration, particularly in sectors such as biotechnology and technology. Additionally, he praised Malaysia’s balanced foreign relations, highlighting its engagement in multilateral forums like APEC and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as instrumental in bringing resources and opportunities to the nation.

Furthermore, he pointed out the alignment between Malaysia and Cuba on critical global issues, such as the Palestinian cause, asserting that nations with diverse backgrounds can unite for larger humanitarian objectives. This collaboration reflects their shared commitment in the international arena. Diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Cuba were established in 1975, with both nations opening embassies in each other’s capitals within a few years thereafter.

The article discusses the Cuban ambassador’s praise for Malaysia’s foreign policy, particularly under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration. It highlights Malaysia’s strategic engagements with developing nations, particularly through the BRICS alliance, and underscores the importance of South-South collaboration in tackling shared challenges. The discourse also touches upon Malaysia’s leadership role in ASEAN and its diplomatic relations with Cuba, initiated in the mid-1970s.

In conclusion, the remarks from Ambassador Gonzalez underscore the critical role of pragmatic foreign policy and collective efforts among nations of the Global South in addressing shared challenges. His appreciation for Malaysia’s initiatives indicates a strong foundation for future cooperation between Malaysia and Cuba, as well as within the broader context of developing nations. The sustained dialogue and partnerships signify a commitment to harnessing collective strengths toward shared prosperity.

Original Source: www.thesundaily.my