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Prime Minister Freundel Stuart accepts a token of appreciation from High Commissioner of Malaysia, Mahinder Singh during the courtesy call. (C. Pitt/BGIS)??

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has pledged to build on the existing relationship between Barbados and Malaysia, and move it from one of shared Commonwealth values to a mutually beneficial one at the bilateral level.

He gave this undertaking as he met with High Commissioner of Malaysia, Mahinder Singh, during a courtesy call at Ilaro Court, recently.

Mr. Stuart acknowledged that both nations had been quietly working on establishing stronger diplomatic ties for some time and based on the common values shared, "the foundation is laid for the deepening of those ties".

He also praised Malaysia for its "impressive results" with the Millennium Development Goals and efforts to sensitise the population about climate change and the benefits of renewable energy.????

High Commissioner Singh mentioned Malaysia’s strides since independence in the area of education and the diversification of its economy which have served the country well over the years.

In turn, the Prime Minister reminded the High Commissioner that Barbados had expressed an interest in formalising a double taxation treaty with Malaysia and quipped: "I want to put on the table that we are still very interested in it".

Malaysia and Barbados established diplomatic ties on April 10, 1992.

julie.carrington@barbados.gov.bb

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