VLADIVOSTOK: Russian president Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim agree that the potential of further collaboration between Russia and Malaysia is "enormous".
Anwar said Putrajaya is happy to continue working closely with Moscow to advance their relationship.
Putin and Anwar came to this agreement in their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 9th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF 2024) here in Russia's largest port city in the Far East region.
Anwar praised the growing partnership between the two countries across various domains and expressed Malaysia's strong desire to enhance their collaboration further.
"As a country that believes in centrality, engaging with all countries, we decided to come with a good team to show our sincerity to enhance (the bilateral ties).
"It's enormous potential that you have in Russia. You have done so much. It is to our benefit too if you could share this experience."
Anwar added that Russia had shown determination to be able to face difficulties and survive.
"We will certainly benefit from this experience."
Anwar said Malaysia and other Asean countries were looking forward to Russia collaborating with the grouping even further.
Malaysia will assume Asean's chairmanship next year.
"As you know, Asean has always engaged with Russia. I look forward to working with you and your team, but more so, Mr President, I agree with you. The potential is huge, and we have not fully utilised that.
"I can assure you, when I assume the chairmanship of Asean, I will make sure that my colleagues in Asean take the same position to enhance collaboration with Russia," he added.
Anwar also told Putin that he made the right decision to visit Russia for the first time since assuming office in November 2022.
"It's not easy but we took that decision. I think it's the right decision.
"We have decided to enhance our collaboration with Russia in all fields, and I would certainly look forward to having better ties, personal and governmental collaborations."
Anwar is on a two-day working visit to Russia in conjunction with EEF 2024.
Earlier, he met with Rushan Hazrat Abbyasov, first deputy chairman of the Russia Muftis Council and Religious Board of Muslims, a few hours after arriving.
Tomorrow, Anwar is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the forum's plenary session in the afternoon.
In 2023, Russia was Malaysia's eighth largest trading partner among European countries.
Total bilateral trade increased 15.6 per cent to RM14.22 billion (US$3.1 billion) from RM12.3 billion (US$2.79 billion) recorded in 2022.
Anwar is accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and senior officials of the ministries.