Anwar, Putin Discuss Energy Supply Security, Trade In Local Currencies

KAZAN – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including the potential to strengthen ties in the energy sector, which is among the strategic areas for both countries.

In a statement issued after the meeting between the two leaders, the Prime Minister’s Office explained that Anwar and Putin also touched on efforts to expand economic cooperation, including appreciating Russia’s commitment to providing long-term cooperation in the areas of energy and oil supply.

“They also exchanged views on opportunities to strengthen cooperation in the fields of new technology, cybersecurity, digital, artificial intelligence (AI), modern agriculture and pharmaceuticals,” the statement clarified.

The discussion between the two leaders also covered efforts to facilitate the movement of people through visa exemption, as well as exploring mechanisms to expand bilateral trade and investment using local currencies, namely the ringgit and the ruble.

“The Madani Government will continue to take strategic and proactive steps to strengthen the country’s energy security, including through international cooperation that can guarantee the stability, sustainability and resilience of energy supply for the benefit of the people and the nation’s prosperity,” according to the Prime Minister’s Office.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, is currently in Kazan, the capital and largest city of Tatarstan, Russia, to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit from June 17 to 18. 

Bernama