New Foreign Policy Framework, new approach – The Star Online

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysias new Foreign Policy Framework under the Pakatan Harapan government has been launched and will serve as a definitive guide for Wisma Putras foreign policy direction.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the framework was a result of thorough and comprehensive reviews and assessments as well as consultations with various stakeholders.

This participatory approach has become the cornerstone of the current government in upholding and promoting cardinal principles such as transparency, openness and good governance.

Foreign policy cannot be effective if it contradicts the expectations and realities of the domestic environment.

Therefore, inter-agency cooperation in implementing policies formulated by the government is important, he said at the launch of the new framework at Perdana Putra here yesterday.

Dr Mahathir said the basic elements of Malaysias foreign policy remained the same, with differences in the way the country approaches certain issues.

The overarching theme of this framework is Change in Continuity. This will be the direction of the implementation of our foreign

policy.

We are living in a world where changes take place at a rapid pace. These changes bring both challenges and opportunities.

It is, therefore, only logical that Malaysia does not stick to the traditional methods of engagements and instead proactively seeks to explore new approaches, he said.

Dr Mahathir outlined three approaches that Malaysias foreign policy would take, which included participating actively in discussions at various international fora where Malaysia is already a member.

For international fora that Malaysia is not a member, the country will aim to influence the decision-making processes.

Malaysia will also be looking to shape the discourse on emerging issues such as Industrial Revolution 4.0 and the blue economy.

Dr Mahathir also said that Malaysia would continue to pursue an independent, principled and pragmatic foreign policy, founded on the values of peace, humanity, justice, and equality.

The country, he said, would continue to maintain friendly relations with all countries and seek peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law and norms.

Despite that, Malaysia reserves the right to express its opinion and if necessary, its protestations, against injustices, oppression and other crimes against humanity that is committed by any nation.

Malaysia has never shied away from what it believes to be a responsibility and commitment to mankind, he said.

Dr Mahathir also expressed concern on powerful countries unilaterally imposing their will on others, while violating international agreements and United Nations resolutions.

There are also powerful countries imposing unilateral sanctions, not respecting trade agreements and blatantly disregarding multilateral framework.

This affects not only the particular country singled out but other countries also.

Malaysia will submit what it must but it will be under open protest, he said.

The 80-page document can be accessed at the Foreign Ministrys website.

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New Foreign Policy Framework, new approach - The Star Online