KAZAN, RUSSIA June 17, 2026 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Russia-ASEAN Commemorative Summit here on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple strategic sectors.
The meeting, held as part of the 35th anniversary celebrations of Russia-ASEAN relations, highlighted energy cooperation as a key priority for both nations. Anwar expressed appreciation for Russia’s commitment to long-term collaboration in energy and oil supplies, including support for Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas).
In his official statement, Anwar said the discussions covered “opportunities to further strengthen collaboration in the energy sector, a strategic area of mutual interest to Malaysia and the Russian Federation.” He conveyed greetings from Malaysia’s King, Sultan Ibrahim, and thanked Putin for the warm hospitality extended to Malaysia.
Key topics included:
- Expanding economic ties and long-term energy and oil supply commitments from Russia.
- Cooperation in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, digital economy, modern agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.
- Facilitating people-to-people movements through visa abolition.
- Promoting bilateral trade and investment using local currencies — the Malaysian Ringgit and Russian Ruble — to reduce reliance on third-party currencies.
Anwar also praised Putin’s “consistent and principled” stance on international issues, particularly regarding Gaza and Iran.
“The MADANI government will continue to take strategic and proactive steps to strengthen the country’s energy security, including through international partnerships that can guarantee stability, continuity, and resilience of energy supplies for the benefit of the people,” Anwar stated.
The bilateral meeting took place during the two-day Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan, where Putin hosted leaders from ASEAN member states to boost strategic partnership, trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.
This engagement underscores Malaysia’s pragmatic foreign policy approach in diversifying energy sources and enhancing economic resilience amid global uncertainties. Further details on specific agreements are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
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