During their summit on Monday, President Yoon Suk Yeol and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim agreed to establish a strategic partnership to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.

After the summit at the Yongsan Presidential Office, Yoon announced the joint declaration on the establishment of a strategic partnership, saying the two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in political and security matters, as well as in areas related to the economy, culture, education, tourism, and regional and international affairs.

The joint statement also said the two leaders agreed on defense cooperation that would be further strengthened by mutual trust.

Yoon requested Anwar’s attention to the participation of South Korean companies in upcoming defense projects, such as the second phase of replacing light attack aircraft, after Malaysia decided last year to introduce 18 South Korean-made FA-50 light attack aircraft.

The two countries also agreed to accelerate negotiations on a free trade agreement, with the aim of concluding it by next year.