- Malaysia-France defence pact in final stage
- Focus on the industry, supply chain role
- Ties date back to the 1993 agreement
Malaysia and France are in the final stages of concluding a new agreement to broaden bilateral defence cooperation, marking a significant step in strengthening long-standing strategic ties.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the proposed document is designed to reinforce cooperation and contribute to regional stability & security. The matter was discussed during a courtesy call by the new French Ambassador to Malaysia, Marc Abensour.
“The meeting also opened avenues to enhance strategic cooperation, particularly in the development of the local defence industry,” Mohamed Khaled said in a Facebook post.
He added that the agreement aims to explore Malaysia’s potential role within the global supply chain network for defence components and technologies, in line with the strengths and expertise of the French defence sector.
Also Read: Combating the Scourge of Counterfeiting
Malaysia and France have maintained defence cooperation since signing an agreement in 1993. The latest move signals both countries’ intent to modernise and expand collaboration amid evolving regional security dynamics.
Mohamed Khaled also highlighted France’s role as an observer in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus, noting its active participation in various Expert Working Groups alongside ASEAN member states.
Ambassador Abensour officially began his duties in Kuala Lumpur in January. The new French Defence Attaché to Malaysia, Col Stefan Stefanic, was also present at the meeting, underscoring France’s continued commitment to defence engagement with Malaysia.