PETALING JAYA: Outgoing US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan visited Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya on Wednesday (Feb 11).
The visit, according to Anwar, was an opportunity for him to voice his appreciation of Kagan's efforts in strengthening the strategic relationship between Malaysia and the United States.
"The close ties between both countries are vital in driving economic growth and expanding cooperation to benefit the people," Anwar said on Facebook.
Kagan is set to end his tenure in February as he retires from the U.S. Foreign Service.
Kagan’s retirement comes two years after he assumed the role, having been appointed during the administration of former president Joe Biden.
His other overseas assignments include India, Australia, China, and Israel, among others.
He presented his credentials as the ambassador to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on March 24, 2024.
US President Donald Trump has nominated Nick Adams to succeed Kagan as the next US ambassador to Malaysia.
The controversial nominee, who has claimed he is Trump’s favourite author, has built a reputation for his incendiary social media posts, tabloid-leaning stunts and fervent support for the US leader.
One of the key highlights of Kagan's tenure was accompanying Trump during the US president’s recent visit to Malaysia in conjunction with the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits.
In his previous media interview, Kagan had commended Malaysia’s leadership as Asean Chair this year, describing it as ‘strong and effective’ in steering the regional bloc through key areas of cooperation.
