It comes as hopes fade for the US to strike a trade deal with Indonesia similar to the one Anwar Ibrahim signed for Malaysia.

Retired General Borhan Ahmad reminds the government that lives were sacrificed to protect the nation's independence and sovereignty.

It is the first direct complaint from Beijing regarding the agreement praised by the Malaysian government.

Ambassador Edgard D Kagan's reminder that there are 'red lines' that Malaysia should not cross shows the true spirit of the recent trade agreement.

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's comments come as Anwar Ibrahim tries to make light of growing criticism of his handling of Asean affairs and the trade deal he signed with the US.

The former deputy chief minister rebukes the ambassador for 'whitewashing' the deal that has sparked public outrage.

The veteran leader once sacked Anwar Ibrahim for embracing policies seen as benefiting Western interests.

Several clauses in the trade deal essentially force Malaysia to give up its independence and align itself with US interests.

The British economy has struggled with fraying ties with its largest trading partners inside the EU.

Tariffs will be eliminated on 96% of goods with the UAE predicting the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement will boost bilateral trade to more than US$10 billion a year within five years.

Prior to entering the European Common Market in 1973, the UK was Australia's most lucrative trading market.

After Brexit, London is keen to shift its economic centre of gravity away from Europe towards faster-growing parts of the world.