PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he has decided to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) leaders’ meeting in San Francisco this week. 

He said 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. 

Anwar said the conference, taking place November 11-17, will also be attended by other Asian countries and Apec members on 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. 

“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,” Anwar said today at the monthly assembly for Finance Ministry staff in Putrajaya.

Anwar said Malaysia’s priority for Palestine is to bring peace and humanitarian aid to the affected people of the country.

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 US exports are sent to its fellow members in Apec.

Apec’s member economies compromise Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, the US and Vietnam. – November 7, 2023.