KYRGYZ REPUBLIC KEEN ON FOOD PRODUCTION COLLABORATION

KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 (Bernama) -- The Kyrgyz Republic is looking for
opportunities to collaborate with Malaysia in the areas of food production and
halal standards, International Trade and Industry Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said
Thursday.

"Being members of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, both countries
are well positioned to collaborate in the production and distribution of halal
products and services for the growing international halal market," Muhyiddin
said.

He said in a statement that Malaysia's Halal Standard MS1500:2004 had been
well receieved by the international Muslim community as well as meeting the
international health and food safety standards.

Muhyiddin Thursday met his counterpart from the Kyrgyz Republic, Economic
Development and Trade Minister Akylbek Japarov.

The two ministers exchanged views on existing trade and investment relations
between the two countries and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral
ties.

Muhyiddin said the business communities of both countries were encouraged to
actively pursue market opportunities available, particularly in areas like
infrastructure and construction activities, power generation, and energy and
mining sectors.

He said Kyrgyz companies were also invited to take advantage of the
investment opportunities in the five economic corridors as well as participation
in international exhibitors and trade fairs organised by Malaysia External Trade
Development Corporation (Matrade) and promoting the development of small and
medium enterprises.

Last year, Malaysia's total trade with the Kyrgyz Republic amounted to
US$2.38 million.
-- BERNAMA