KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15 — French President Emmanuel Macron will undertake an official visit to Malaysia on Nov 16 and 17, marking his first trip to the country.

The Malaysia visit will follow Macron’s state visit to Cambodia from Nov 14 to 16, where he is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in economic affairs, culture and healthcare.

The visit is expected to usher in a new chapter in Malaysia-France relations, with both countries set to elevate their longstanding ties to a strategic partnership covering defence and security, critical minerals, the energy transition, aeronautics and space, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and semiconductors.

According to the French Presidency, the two countries will develop their cooperation based on common priorities, while strengthening collaboration on major regional and international issues, as well as relations between Europe and Asean.