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The Star

‘Carbon tax will be gradual, not a barrier to investment'

Bilateral synergy: Anwar addressing the audience during a roundtable meeting in Paris with French captains of industry. — Bernama PARIS: The proposed carbon tax, to be finalised in several months, should not be considered a problem for investing companies, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the proposed tax would be carried out cautiously and gradually. 'We are finalising that in the next few months. 'I know about the trend of decarbonisation (which is) strong and compelling, but we have to be realistic. 'The proposed tax should not be seen as a problem at the expense of investing companies,' he said during a question and answer session at a roundtable meeting with French captains of industry. More than 42 representatives from French companies and 18 representatives from Malaysian companies attended the event. The French representatives had positive remarks about working in Malaysia, with several of them noting that they invested because they believed in the country. Anwar also said that Malaysia, which focuses on neutrality, is friendly to all including having excellent relations with China, adding that having economic fundamentals remains the core focus. 'We engage and respond to all. At the end of the day, peace and stability are important in carrying out business. We are in one of the most peaceful regions in the world and one with the fastest growing economies,' he said. Anwar also took time to speak with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to congratulate him on the Liberal Party's recent electoral victory. 'I look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Carney and his new administration to strengthen the longstanding Malaysia-Canada partnership for the mutual benefit of our peoples,' he said. Malaysia, he added, remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Canada across various sectors, including trade, investment and defence cooperation. 'I'm pleased with PETRONAS' continued involvement in the LNG Canada project, as it clearly symbolises strong cooperation in the energy sector,' he said. He called on Canada to reconsider visa exemptions for Malay­sians, noting that both countries are Commonwealth members.