VLADIVOSTOK: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will attend the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia from Oct 22-24.
Anwar, in a posting on his Facebook tonight, said he accepted Putin's personal invitation during a protracted and substantive bilateral cum working dinner session tonight.
The invitation, he added, is a clear testament to the importance Russia places on Malaysia.
"I had the honour of meeting with President Vladimir Putin during my working visit to Vladivostok for the 9th Eastern Economic Forum.
"Our discussions, which continued well into a dinner graciously hosted by the President, were deep, wide-ranging, and productive. President Putin and I expressed a shared commitment to strengthening ties between Malaysia and Russia.
"President Putin and I exchanged perspectives on global events, and I was pleased to accept his gracious invitation for Malaysia to participate in the forthcoming BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia."
This marks a significant step towards Malaysia's ultimate goal of joining the grouping, Anwar added.
On July 28 this year, Anwar said Malaysia had sent an application to Russia to join BRICS following the courtesy call made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on that day.
Russia currently chairs BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates.
It is considered the foremost geopolitical rival of the G7 bloc of some of the world's most developed nations.
Anwar said as Malaysia continues to expand its geoeconomic space and diversify its strategic relationships, Russia will be a key partner that shares its vision for growth, prosperity and development.
"From Islamic finance to agriculture to education, the potential for Malaysia and Russia to leverage their expertise for the mutual benefit of their peoples is immense."
He expressed hope that Russia will pursue a constructive path towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, resting on the foundations for a negotiated peace.
"Through continued engagement, I believe we can deepen our understanding during these challenging times."
Anwar said he and Putin agreed that the international community must intensify pressure to end Israel's ruthless genocidal campaigns in Gaza.
"As we build on the commitments and shared vision discussed during this visit, I am optimistic that the foundations laid today will lead to meaningful cooperation between Russia and Malaysia in the years to come," he added.