Malaysia and Saudi Arabia called Tuesday for the rights of the Palestinian people to be restored to ensure peace and peace and stability in the Middle East.
The call was made in a joint communiqué at the end of an eight-day visit here by Saudi Defense Minister Prince Sultan Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, the national news agency Bernama reported.
"Saudi Arabia and Malaysia unequivocally condemn the flagrant Israeli aggression on Islamic sites under the protection of the Israeli forces which led to the massacre of many innocent Palestinian people," the communiqué said.
"Both countries are deeply concerned with the grave situation that has befallen their Palestinian brothers that was caused by Israeli military aggression and which has derailed the peace process."
They urged the Islamic world to stay united and make every effort to stop the aggression and sacrileges on Islamic holy places.
They also supported a recommendation of the Arab League Summit, which met recently in Cairo that a war crime tribunal be set up by the United Nations to investigate those responsible for Palestinian deaths.
On a bilateral note, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia pledged to promote cooperation in trade and economy, science and technology, defense, finance, religious affairs, tourism, culture, youth and sports.
"In particular, the two countries agree to work together to help improve the international regulatory system and the international financial order," the communiqué said.
"Malaysia reiterated its strong support for the membership of Saudi Arabia in the World Trade Organization which would further strengthen the position of Islamic and developing countries."
The Saudi prince has met Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and other cabinet ministers during his stay -- KUALA LUMPUR (AFP)
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