Malaysia Targets Closer Ties With Africa

Controversial Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe will be among African leaders descending on Malaysia this weekend for an economic forum designed to foster closer trade links with the continent.

The 87-year-old Mugabe, who is banned from travelling to the European Union over his regime's human rights record is among leaders and representatives from 20 countries expected in Kuala Lumpur.

Sudan's Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court, had initially agreed to attend the gathering but pulled out amid opposition to his presence from rights group Amnesty International.

Mugabe, Sudan's Bashir To Visit Malaysia: Minister

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court, are to visit Malaysia for an economic gathering, a minister said Sunday.

Kohilan Pillay, deputy foreign minister, told AFP that Mugabe and Bashir will be among the seven African leaders who will participate in the Langkawi International Dialogue from June 19 to 21.

"Leaders of the African countries will present their views on how to bolster trade, economic and political ties at the annual meeting," he said.

The African leaders will be hosted by Prime Minister Najib Razak who will address the issue of socio-economic development.