Malaysian Prime Minister highlights Russia’s role in ASEAN and thanks Moscow for support in energy supplies during meeting with Putin

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his intention to expand bilateral cooperation with Russia across a wide range of areas and specifically highlighted the support provided to Malaysia in matters related to energy supplies during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Russia–Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kazan. This was reported on the Kremlin’s official website.

The Russia–ASEAN Summit is being held in Kazan and marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of relations between the parties.

"The relations in the last few years have been remarkable. We have seen impressive development, and my visit was – you were fantastic. We see the enormous role that Russia can play not only in Malaysia but also in the developing world, ASEAN and the rest. We are exploring this halal economy and finance. We are now almost finishing the visa abolition arrangement. [...] And then you have also agreed to these flights for tourism, for trade, and connectivity between Malaysia, Moscow, Kazan, and other cities in Russia"

Anwar Ibrahim Prime Minister of Malaysia

The Malaysian Prime Minister stressed that his country is interested in developing air links with Russia that could connect Malaysian and Russian cities.

Putin also noted the positive experience of mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and Malaysia. The Russian leader pointed out that bilateral trade between the two countries increased by 12.9 per cent last year, describing this as a strong result.

The Russian President highlighted the importance of cooperation in education, science, and technology, as well as the development of tourism and humanitarian ties.

"Next year will mark the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. And we approach this milestone with a rich legacy of fruitful cooperation behind us and considerable scope for further growth ahead. […] At the same time, we attach great importance to joint initiatives in education, science, and technology and to expanding tourism and people-to-people ties. […] Last year, your country held the ASEAN chairmanship, and we are truly grateful for Malaysia’s support in advancing Russia’s strategic partnership with the Association. Our two countries also coordinate closely in other international arenas, including the United Nations, BRICS, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation"

Vladimir Putin President of the Russian Federation

Vladimir Putin concluded that the Russia–ASEAN Summit provides a valuable opportunity to discuss priority issues in the multifaceted relations between Russia and Malaysia.

Earlier, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took part in the Russia–ASEAN Business Forum, which was held in Kazan on the opening day of the Russia–ASEAN Summit.