In a dynamic show of international cooperation, the Chinese mainland and Malaysia have taken a joint stand against U.S. tariff hikes that threaten global trade stability. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and Malaysia's Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz held a high-level video meeting to discuss strategies to counter the so-called reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States.
During the candid exchange, Minister Wang described the tariffs as a unilateral act that undermines years of multilateral trade negotiations and destabilizes industrial and supply chains worldwide. He stressed that these measures hurt the legitimate interests of many nations while also endangering global economic growth. The minister affirmed that the Chinese mainland is prepared to take decisive countermeasures if the U.S. persists on this path.
Echoing this sentiment, Tengku Zafrul noted that Malaysia, which currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, opposes the U.S. tariff policy. He pointed out that such policies run counter to the principles of free and fair trade, as outlined by the World Trade Organization, and emphasized that Malaysia is committed to working closely with ASEAN partners to craft a coordinated response.
This strategic dialogue highlights a broader commitment among the Chinese mainland and ASEAN members to uphold a multilateral trading system that benefits global economic interests. It also reinforces the importance of international collaboration in addressing disruptive trade policies in today’s fast-evolving economic landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
