Malaysia, New Zealand draw together in face of terror

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA - Malaysia and New Zealand said that the two countries were in agreement on the need to forge closer ties against terrorism, local media reported on Wednesday.

Addressing a joint news conference after meeting her New Zealand counterpart in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said: "We have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in combating this scourge of terrorism," Bernama news agency reported.

The meeting with Winston Peters came on the heels of a terror attack in Christchurch, New Zealand, which claimed the lives of 50 Muslims with as many injured during congregational Friday prayers.

A statement released by the Malaysian foreign ministry said the visit would provide opportunities for both countries to "explore ways to strengthen existing bilateral cooperation" in various areas including trade, investment, education, tourism, defense and interpersonal ties.

"In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks in Christchurch on 15 March, 2019, both sides are also expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in combating the scourge of terrorism," the statement released Tuesday evening said.

A Malaysian teenager was among the deceased in the attack that left three others injured.

During the meeting, Wan Azizah said Kuala Lumpur offered its heartfelt condolences to New Zealand and its people as well as the families of the victims.

"The government of Malaysia stands together with the government of New Zealand in this difficult time," she said.

Peters said: "The victims of this appalling terrorist attack include Malaysians, and our thoughts are very much with them, their families and communities."

"[Our] government is providing every support to those who had been impacted by the incident," he added.

"We are a country that practices religious tolerance. An attack on one of us observing our beliefs is an attack on all of us," he said.