U.S.-Malaysia talks begin on Monday

U.S.-Malaysia talks begin on Monday

The two issues are very sensitive topics for Malaysia, touching the heart of the country's affirmative action policy favoring firms controlled by indigenous ethnic Malays.

The United States and Malaysia hope to conclude the talks on removing trade barriers and set up a free trade area by the end of this year, said the U.S. team leader, Assistant Trade Representative for Asia-Pacific Barbara Weisel, the AP reports.