‘You have shown determination’: Malaysian PM praises Putin, pledges closer ties

Singapore: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has praised President Vladimir Putin for steering Russia’s development and pledged to deepen ties, saying there was “enormous potential” to enhance regional trade relations.

Anwar, who is on two-day visit to Moscow, said it would be to Malaysia’s benefit if Russia shared its achievements and agreed to “collaborate in all fields of endeavour”. Both countries are discussing tie-ups ranging from aerospace and advanced technologies to agriculture and food security.

“You have shown your determination to be able to undertake difficulties and survive, and we would certainly benefit from this experience,” Anwar said in a meeting with Putin on the sidelines of Russia’s Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (left) meets Russia’s Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Wednesday. Credit: AP

Anwar has followed in the footsteps of other Asian leaders in meeting Putin since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, unmoved by the West’s condemnation of the Russian leader and his charges for alleged war crimes. The decision to visit Russia, Anwar said, was “not an easy feat” but it was “the right decision”.