PM Anwar, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Ties and PETRONAS-ENI Strategic Partnership

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 29: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a phone conversation earlier today with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, during which both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Malaysia–Italy relations and advancing energy cooperation between PETRONAS and Eni S.p.A (ENI).

According to Anwar, Prime Minister Meloni explained her absence from the 47th ASEAN Summit was due to urgent domestic responsibilities in Rome, particularly the ongoing budget deliberations and legislative processes, as well as discussions within the European Union.

“I conveyed to Prime Minister Meloni that Malaysia fully understands her domestic priorities and the need for her undivided attention at this critical time,” Anwar said in a statement.

During the conversation, Anwar expressed Malaysia’s readiness to welcome PM Meloni to Kuala Lumpur early next year to finalize the strategic partnership agreement between PETRONAS and ENI, a move expected to bolster energy cooperation and mutual economic growth.

He also thanked Italy for its consistent stance in supporting global calls for peace, justice, and humanitarian principles in Gaza, describing it as “a voice of conscience much needed on the world stage today.”

Both leaders agreed to accelerate and conclude the PETRONAS-ENI collaboration in the near future, viewing it as a significant milestone in bilateral relations.

“God willing, the close ties between Malaysia and Italy will continue to strengthen for the benefit of the people of both nations,” Anwar added.