KUALA LUMPUR, June 16, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has left Malaysia for Kazan, Russia, to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, marking the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between ASEAN and Russia.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Anwar announced his departure, noting that he is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin and participate in the Russia-ASEAN Business Forum. The summit runs from June 17–18, 2026.
Accompanying the Prime Minister are key ministers, including Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Minister of Economy Akmal Nasrullah, along with senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Photos from the departure show Anwar boarding Malaysia’s official aircraft at the airport, waving to the delegation and engaging with officials. He wore a light-coloured shirt and sunglasses as he ascended the stairs of the jet emblazoned with the Malaysian flag.
While in Kazan, Anwar is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Putin, focusing on energy security. He has highlighted the importance of securing stable supplies of oil and gas for Malaysia amid global uncertainties.
Additional engagements include meetings with ASEAN counterparts and the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov.
Following the Kazan summit, Anwar will travel to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, for an official visit at the invitation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedow. The trip aims to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in the energy sector.
Malaysia is exploring opportunities for access to major gas fields through PETRONAS, with expectations of significant agreements to bolster national energy reserves.
In his X post, Anwar sought prayers for the success of the delegation’s mission, hoping it would bring maximum benefits to Malaysia. He tagged the trip with hashtags including #MalaysiaMADANI, #DiplomasiMADANI, and flags of Malaysia, Russia, and Turkmenistan.
This multi-nation trip underscores Malaysia’s active diplomacy under Anwar’s leadership, balancing engagement with major powers while advancing economic and energy interests in the region.
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