By Anadolu staff
ANKARA (AA) – The Malaysian and Japanese prime ministers held a phone conversation Wednesday to discuss a variety of issues, mainly US reciprocal tariffs and the ASEAN bloc response to the move.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba, discussed the effect of the reciprocal tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump that have jolted economies.
Japan and Malaysia have been hit with 24% levies on exports to the US, although the tariffs have been paused for 90 days.
"We both touched on several important matters, particularly regarding the United States' reciprocal tariffs and their impact on the world economy," Anwar wrote on X.
"I emphasize that Malaysia has held discussions with the leaders of ASEAN countries in addition to expressing agreement and togetherness to continue negotiations with the United States on this matter," he added.
Malaysia expressed appreciation for Japan's desire and interest in working together to develop the ASEAN Power Grid network, a key initiative under the ASEAN Vision 2020.
The two leaders also discussed cooperation, including the development of the new energy sector, hydrogen involving Malaysia's state energy firms state energy firm and the Sarawak state government.
The two sides also talked about the recent earthquake in Myanmar, with Anwar expressing condolences to Ishiba for the Japanese who were killed in the tragedy.
"Malaysia-Japan relations will continue to be strong based on respect, trust and long-term commitment by both countries in various strategic areas," Anwar added.
*Writing by Aamir Latif