Vladivostok, September 05, 2024, The Europe Today: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Accepts BRICS Summit Invitation: Malaysia is advancing its efforts to join the BRICS intergovernmental organization after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim accepted a personal invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the upcoming BRICS Summit.
- Bilateral Meeting in Vladivostok: The invitation was extended during a recent bilateral meeting between Anwar and Putin at the 9th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia.
- Strategic Significance:
- Anwar described the invitation as a significant acknowledgment of Malaysia’s growing importance to Russia and a major step towards Malaysia’s goal of joining the BRICS group.
- He emphasized Malaysia’s expanding geoeconomic influence and the importance of diversifying strategic relationships, identifying Russia as a key partner in this vision.
- Key Areas of Cooperation:
- The Prime Minister highlighted the potential for collaboration in sectors such as Islamic finance, agriculture, and education, noting that both nations can leverage their expertise for mutual benefit.
- Anwar expressed optimism that the foundations laid during this meeting would lead to substantial cooperation between Malaysia and Russia in the coming years.
- Background on BRICS:
- Initially formed in 2009, BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with the latter joining in 2010.
- During the BRICS Summit in August 2023, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
- The bloc now contributes to 25% of the global economy, accounts for 20% of global trade, and represents approximately 40% of the world’s population.
- Malaysia had submitted its application to join BRICS earlier in July 2024.
- Geopolitical Concerns:
- Beyond economic matters, Anwar used the opportunity to urge Russia to pursue peaceful negotiations to resolve the ongoing 30-month-old war in Ukraine.
- Both leaders also called for increased international pressure to halt Israel’s actions in Gaza, with Anwar condemning what he described as “ruthless genocidal campaigns.”
This latest development positions Malaysia as a growing player in global economic and geopolitical arenas, reinforcing its strategic alliances with BRICS nations.
