PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and Turkmenistan have reaffirmed the importance of resolving international challenges, including the Palestinian cause, through peaceful means.
In a joint statement following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow, both leaders stressed that solutions must align with international law and relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions.
"The leaders called for unimpeded humanitarian aid access to Palestinian territories and stressed the need for a just and lasting resolution to ensure peace and stability in the region," the statement read.
Both Anwar and Berdimuhamedow also highlighted the need to foster mutual understanding and strengthen regional and international stability.
They said that these principles aligned with the Asean Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality (Zopfan) and Turkmenistan's initiative for a Zone of Peace, Trust, and Cooperation in Central Asia.
"As Malaysia prepares to assume the Asean Chairmanship in 2025, Turkmenistan's support strengthens this shared vision, promoting mutual understanding, regional independence, and cooperative security. Malaysia encourages Turkmenistan to consider acceding to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia," the statement added.
The leaders also acknowledged the importance of maintaining regular contacts and consultations to fully realise the potential of bilateral relations.
This includes the regular exchange of views on international issues during meetings and conferences, such as those held under the UN, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and other key international frameworks.
Earlier today, President Berdimuhamedow, who is on a two-day visit to Malaysia, was officially welcomed at the Perdana Putra Complex.
He arrived at 9am and was greeted by Prime Minister Anwar before inspecting a guard of honour, consisting of three officers and 102 members of the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment.
Between January and October, Malaysia's total trade with Turkmenistan surged by 74.8 per cent to RM63.28 million (US$13.90 million), compared to RM36.19 million (US$7.91 million) during the same period last year.
Last year, Turkmenistan was Malaysia's fourth-largest trading partner in Central Asia, with total trade valued at RM48.62 million (US$10.57 million).