Malaysian premier urges openness ahead of Russia-ASEAN summit
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday called for expanded economic and strategic cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Russia, urging greater openness and inclusivity ahead of Thursday's landmark summit in Kazan commemorating 35 years of diplomatic relations.
Business Forum Address
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday called for "openness, inclusivity and cooperation" between Southeast Asian nations and Russia ahead of a high-level summit in Kazan, urging the 11-member bloc to deepen economic integration beyond traditional partnerships. Addressing the Russia-ASEAN Business Forum, Anwar said the relationship should expand into strategic sectors such as energy security, food security, trade and investment, according to a live video telecast on his verified Facebook page. "We want not only to continue engagement with Russia, but to enhance this collaboration because, let us be honest, despite being principal economic partners, we are not utilizing the enormous potential in ASEAN," he said, stressing the need for stronger economic partnerships amid growing global uncertainties.
Trade Growth and Summit Preparations
Russian Economic Development Minister Maksim Reshetnikov told the forum that trade between Russia and ASEAN member states had increased by 58% over the past decade, reaching $21 billion. President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to host the bloc's leaders on Thursday, marking 35 years of Russia-ASEAN diplomatic relations.
Bilateral Ties with Tatarstan
Upon arrival in the southwestern Russian city, Anwar met with Rustam Minnikhanov, head of Russia's Republic of Tatarstan, to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, tourism and technology. The two sides also exchanged views on talent development and the halal industry, according to a statement shared on social media.
Anwar said the energy sector featured prominently in discussions, noting that Tatarstan is one of Russia's major oil-producing regions and offers significant opportunities for cooperation in oil and gas, refining, petrochemicals and downstream industries. He also praised Putin's initiative in establishing the Strategic Vision Group, describing it as an important bridge between Russia and the Islamic world that promotes dialogue and practical cooperation.
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