[UPDATED] Don’t call me pro-Israel for attending Apec in San Francisco: Anwar

PUTRAJAYA – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has decided to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) leaders’ meeting in San Francisco which is being held from November 11 to 17.

The prime minister said that the decision was made based on considerations to maintain diplomatic relations and peace even though the government’s stance is unwavering in defending justice and supporting Palestine.

He noted that the conference will also be attended by Asian countries and Apec members at the invitation of US President Joe Biden.

“I have decided to attend the Apec conference, which is attended by all Asian countries at the invitation of President Joe Biden to San Francisco.

“Of course, this decision may not please some parties,” he said.

“Do not judge me for being pro-Israel for attending Apec because as the prime minister, I also have to take care of the interests of this country, on matters of security, economy and convenience,” he said when speaking at an assembly for civil servants at the Finance Ministry here today.

Anwar said Malaysia’s priority for Palestine is to help bring peace and humanitarian aid to support the lives of the people of that country who are suffering.

Apec is a regional economic platform established in 1989 to capitalise on the growing interdependence of countries in Asia and those around the Pacific.

Its 21 member economies account for nearly 40% of the global population and nearly 50% of global trade. More than 60% of the US’ exports are sent to its fellow members in Apec.

Besides Malaysia and the US, the others are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taipei, Thailand, and Vietnam. – The Vibes, November 7, 2023