Malaysian premier calls for ‘constructive path’ toward sustainable solution to Ukraine conflict

ANKARA

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Wednesday called for a "constructive path" toward a sustainable solution to the Ukraine conflict.

Following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sideline of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Ibrahim said they also agreed that the international community must intensify pressure to end Israel’s “ruthless genocidal campaigns” in Gaza.

"I also expressed my 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," he said on X.

"Through continued engagement, I believe we can deepen our understanding during these challenging times. Additionally, we agreed that the international community must intensify pressure to end Israel’s ruthless genocidal campaigns in Gaza," he added.

Putin also invited the Malaysian Prime Minister to the forthcoming BRICS Summit, which will be held on Oct. 22-24, 2024 in Kazan, Russia.

"The invitation, extended directly by President Putin himself during a protracted and substantive bilateral cum working dinner session, is a clear testament to the importance Russia places on Malaysia. This marks a significant step towards our ultimate goal of joining the grouping," Ibrahim said.

The two leaders also agreed to strengthen relations between their countries.

"As Malaysia continues to expand its geoeconomic space and diversify its strategic relationships, Russia will be a key partner that shares our 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 said.

In July, Ibrahim said that his country applied for membership of the BRICS, a group of emerging economies.

BRICS includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In January, it welcomed Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE as full members.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid