transparency and promoting confidence building measures through dialogue and defence cooperation areas which will be identified later. Defence Cooperation With Non-ASEAN Countries Bilateral defence cooperation between Malaysia and Australia was established before the Second World War and was strengthened with the establishment of the FPDA in 1972. The defence cooperation was further enhanced with the signing of the MalaysiaAustralia Joint Defence Programme (MAJDP) in 1992. A similar relation exists with New Zealand where long term cooperation was enhanced with the establishment of the FPDA. Malaysia‘s defence cooperation with Australia and New Zealand is important and in line with the spirit of the FPDA. While Malaysia and the US differ on many global and regional issues, Malaysia is confident that the US will continue to play an active role in the region. Malaysia regards positively its relations with the US as it provides training in various professional fields, defence and science technology as well as a source of defence acquisition. In line with the country’s economic and political interests, Malaysia has established defence cooperation with several European countries such as the United Kingdom, Sweden, France and Italy. Malaysia regards its defence cooperation with these European countries which are known for their defence industry and technology as critical for the development of its defence capability. The MAF obtains exposure to the latest defence technology and training opportunities through its defence cooperation and relations with these countries. Malaysia’s defence cooperation with Russia in terms of training and technology transfer is aimed at developing the country’s defence capabilities. Moreover, Russia is a source of defence acquisition and an important partner in Malaysia’s quest for new technology and knowledge such as the space programme. MALAYSIA’S NATIONAL DEFENCE POLICY Page 22