On 12 June 2020, Malaysia’s Heads of Missions in Europe held an online discussion to exchange notes on various regional issues. The inaugural online discussion was initiated and hosted by the Ambassador of Malaysia to France, H.E. Dato' Dr. Azfar Mohamad Mustafar. Issues discussed include palm oil and COVID-19.
Dr. Puah Chiew Mei of Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) based in Brusssels, Belgium was also invited to give a presentation on the current state of play of palm oil within EU. This was followed by an incisive discussion on the overall strategy undertaken by Malaysia vis-a-vis its palm oil trade with Europe, and how this fits within Malaysia's overall engagement with the European countries, as well as with the EU.
Apart from the above, the Heads of Missions also discussed about the post-coronavirus dynamics in the region. Among others, the Heads of Missions exchanged notes on the COVID-19 mitigation efforts employed in European countries, consular services during lockdown, freedom of travel and other related issues.
The discussion ended with a high note, with the Heads of Missions agreeing to have the session institutionalised, so as to provide a clear discussion platform. As such, the next session in July which will be hosted by Malawakil Rome will take a more formal approach.
