KAZAN, RUSSIA June 17, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan, shortly after arriving in Kazan for a two-day working visit. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Anwar highlighted productive discussions on trade, investment, energy (particularly oil and gas, including downstream activities, refining, and petrochemicals), education, tourism, the halal industry, technology, and talent development. He also praised Kazan’s designation as the 2026 World Islamic Cultural Capital by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).
“I extend my congratulations to Kazan on its recognition as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World 2026 by ICESCO,” Anwar said. This reflects the city’s role as a center of Islamic scholarship, culture, and innovation.
The Prime Minister also commended Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Strategic Vision Group (SVG), describing it as an important bridge between Russia and the Islamic world to enhance dialogue and meaningful cooperation.
Additional topics included the role of the KazanForum in boosting business ties, innovation, the digital economy, and strategic investments. Minnikhanov previously proposed hosting a meeting of the Malaysia-Russia intergovernmental commission in Kazan.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of the Russia-ASEAN 35 Years of Cooperation commemorative events in Kazan. Anwar is leading a Malaysian delegation to strengthen ties between Malaysia, Russia, and the broader ASEAN-Russia partnership.
This visit builds on previous engagements between Anwar and Minnikhanov, underscoring growing interest in economic and cultural links between Malaysia and Tatarstan, one of Russia’s key oil-producing regions.
Both sides expressed optimism that the discussions will lead to tangible benefits for their peoples and economies.
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