Principle Of Centrality Continues To Guide Malaysia’s Trade Policy - PM Anwar

By Muhammad Saufee Rosman

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s approach to trade agreements will continue to be guided by the principle of centrality, giving balanced attention to all major economic partners, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the government gives priority to key partners, including Russia and China, while maintaining its independent stance in pursuing trade and investment opportunities.

“We follow the principle of centrality.  Trade and investments are very important,” he told reporters before a bilateral meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits here today.

Yesterday, Malaysia and the United States signed a reciprocal trade agreement that will allow Malaysia greater market access than previously agreed.

Regarding his meeting with Overchuk, Anwar said Malaysia remains committed to enhancing bilateral relations with Russia across various sectors, including research, education, science, trade, and investment.

“We will continue (bilateral relations), and we have good relations with Russia,” he said, adding that the strong ties were further strengthened during his official visit to Russia in May this year.

“I had a good meeting with President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, Russia,” he added.

Malaysia and Russia established diplomatic relations in 1967, and ties between the two nations have since expanded across multiple sectors, including defence, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair 2025, is currently hosting more than 30 world leaders, including those from the ASEAN region, the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

Leaders from international organisations such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) are also attending the three-day 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which conclude tomorrow.

-- BERNAMA