Australia, Malaysia sign MoU for MH370 search

Australia Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Malaysia to strengthen their collaboration in the search of missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.

Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai signed the MOU with Australian Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss after a meeting in Canberra that also included Chinese Vice Minister of Transport He Jianzhong, Xinhua reported.

Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, which was carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew members, disappeared from radar screens March 8 and has not been found since.

"I want to express my profound gratitude for the leadership role the Australian government has played in this complex and challenging exercise, and to the Chinese government for their ongoing support and resources dedicated to our efforts," Liow said in a statement.

Liow said the MoU with Australia provides the framework for cooperation in the search for MH370 and includes Malaysia's financial contribution towards the search effort to match Australia's commitment.

"The combination of undersea search equipment, world-class experts and cutting edge technology that is being used will be our best chance of finding MH370 and we are hopeful in our prospects of doing so," he said.

"Malaysia pledges its continued and unwavering support in response to the unprecedented nature and scale of this event through our financial commitment, technical expertise, equipment and stamina in our search for answers."