NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin shortly after arriving in New Delhi, with the two leaders discussing measures to deepen economic, tourism and energy cooperation between Malaysia and Russia.
The meeting began at about 11pm and was conducted in a cordial atmosphere, according to Anwar. The discussions included an assessment of progress in bilateral relations and proposals for turning existing agreements into concrete initiatives.
One of the issues raised by Anwar was the establishment of direct air links between Malaysia and Russia. He said efforts should be accelerated to introduce direct flights, which could support greater movement between the two countries and contribute to tourism, trade and investment.
Visa-free travel arrangements that had previously been agreed upon were also discussed. Anwar said advancing the arrangements would complement efforts to increase people-to-people links and create more opportunities for economic engagement.
Energy cooperation was another key area of the talks. Anwar expressed appreciation for Russia’s support in Malaysia’s energy sector and said the two countries could make greater use of their respective expertise and capabilities to expand cooperation in the strategic field.
The Malaysian prime minister also raised the issue of palm oil exports to Russia. Discussions focused on increasing the volume of Malaysian palm oil entering the Russian market as part of wider efforts to strengthen bilateral trade.
Anwar said both sides also explored ways to increase the overall value of trade between Malaysia and Russia, with a proposal to work towards doubling bilateral trade.
Beyond individual areas of cooperation, the meeting addressed the implementation of agreements already reached between the two governments. Anwar stressed that commitments should be followed by timely action rather than remaining at the discussion stage.
To improve coordination, Anwar proposed creating a special mechanism involving Malaysia and Russia to monitor and accelerate the implementation of bilateral agreements. Putin agreed to the proposal, according to Anwar.
Such a mechanism would provide a dedicated channel for both sides to coordinate follow-up measures and address delays in carrying out agreed initiatives. It would also be intended to ensure that commitments made at the political level are translated into practical cooperation.
The discussions covered several areas with potential implications for commercial and people-to-people relations. Direct air connectivity and visa arrangements could facilitate travel, while expanded energy cooperation and increased palm oil exports could contribute to stronger economic ties.
At the end of the meeting, Anwar conveyed an invitation from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for Putin to undertake a State Visit to Malaysia.
Anwar said the proposed visit could provide an opportunity to further develop relations between Malaysia and Russia. He described the bilateral relationship as becoming closer and more mature, with both countries seeking areas of cooperation that could deliver mutual benefits.
The latest talks form part of Malaysia’s continued diplomatic and economic engagement with Russia. The emphasis on implementation, connectivity, trade and strategic sectors indicates a focus on strengthening practical cooperation alongside established political relations.
