ANKARA – Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan jointly chaired the inaugural meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), setting the course for enhanced Malaysia-Turkey relations.
The meeting marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties, with both leaders agreeing to expand cooperation across a wide range of priority sectors.
These include trade and investment, halal industry, Islamic finance, semiconductors, intelligent transport systems (ITS), defence and security, energy and environment, rare earth elements (REE), tourism, and education.
Discussions also focused on broadening collaboration within regional and multilateral frameworks. Malaysia and Turkey reaffirmed their commitment to work closely through ASEAN, the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Both sides exchanged views on pressing international issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and wider security developments in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed appreciation for the recognition given to Malaysia’s diplomatic role in facilitating reconciliation efforts between Cambodia and Thailand.
He also welcomed the acknowledgement of Malaysia’s successful chairmanship of ASEAN last year, which underscored the country’s leadership in regional affairs.
The HLSCC meeting in Ankara highlighted the shared vision of Malaysia and Turkey to elevate their partnership to a more strategic and comprehensive level.
Both leaders emphasised that cooperation must be guided by mutual benefit, complementarity, and a commitment to regional stability.
The establishment of the council reflects the determination of both nations to deepen ties not only bilaterally but also within broader international platforms.
It also signals Malaysia’s intent to strengthen its global presence while working with Turkey to address challenges in trade, technology, security, and humanitarian issues.
