Malaysia Backs Prospects Of US-Iran Peace Deal To End West Asia Conflict - Anwar

From Nurul Hanis Izmir

KAZAN, June 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is optimistic that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on a peace agreement between the United States (US) and Iran could pave the way towards ending the conflict and securing lasting peace in West Asia.

He expressed confidence over the positive developments in the negotiations, although a final agreement between the two countries must be reached within a maximum period of 60 days.

Anwar said his optimism was based on first-hand information from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has played a key mediating role in steering the timeline of the critical negotiations.

“The 60-day period is not long, so let us all pray… based on what the Prime Minister of Pakistan informed me, he has discussed the matter openly and in depth, and has been involved at every stage of the negotiations. Everything appears to be moving in a more positive direction.

“In my discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, he also expressed a similar view and outlook,” he told a press conference after attending the 35th ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit here on Thursday. 

While not ruling out any possibility given that the situation also involves the administration of US President Donald Trump, Anwar said there was, in general, growing confidence that the peace agreement would be successfully concluded this time.

At the same time, Anwar stressed that while the world welcomed the peace initiative, the international community must not lose sight of the worsening humanitarian crisis unfolding in nearby conflict zones.

“We must remind the world never to forget the suffering endured by the people of Gaza and Lebanon as a result of the continued atrocities committed by the Zionist Israeli regime,” he said.

Previously, the Foreign Ministry said Malaysia welcomed the announcement of the MoU between the US and Iran, describing it as an important step towards easing tensions in West Asia and laying the groundwork for a comprehensive and lasting settlement.

Wisma Putra also expressed appreciation to the governments of Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and other regional countries for their respective roles in supporting diplomatic efforts and dialogue between the two parties.

Anwar is in Kazan to attend the 35th ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, which is being held over two days beginning yesterday.

Upon concluding his visit to Kazan, Anwar is scheduled to continue with a two-day official visit to Turkmenistan starting Thursday at the invitation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

-- BERNAMA