M'sia to attend Apec, to remain steadfast in stand on Palestine

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Economic Leaders Week in the United States but will remain steadfast on the issue of Palestine, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim

Anwar said there were parties which had expressed an opinion for him not to attend the meeting, adding that he had sought views on the matter from member countries.

He then added that so far, leaders of all the Asian nations as well as other Apec members would be attending the meeting

“So, I have decided to attend the meeting. As Prime Minister, it is my responsibility to look after the interests of Malaysia in terms of security, peace, diplomatic relations and economy,” said Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister.

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He added that the decision would not move Malaysia’s position when it comes to the issue of Palestine.

“Our stand remains strong and firm. We will continue to support justice and the rights of the people of Palestine,” he said at the Finance Ministry’s monthly assembly on Tuesday (Nov 7).

Anwar then added that he is aware that his decision to attend the Apec meeting on the invitation by United States’ President Joseph Biden would not go well with certain groups.

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“I am doing this for the interest of the country and I have maintained that we will continue to support Palestine. Do not label me as pro-Israel,” he said.

The Apec Leaders Week will be held in San Francisco from Nov 11 to 17.

On Oct 31, Opposition lawmaker Wan Ahmad Fayshal Wan Ahmad (PN-Machang) had asked the Prime Minister whether Malaysia would boycott the Apec meeting as a sign of solidarity for Palestine.