Key facts
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and other Asean leaders met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan.
- The meeting occurred during the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit, celebrating 35 years of ties.
- Leaders cited energy security and other practical needs as reasons for engagement despite Western pressure on Russia.
- Anwar highlighted Asean's centrality and willingness to engage with Russia to focus on regional development.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim attended the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Russia, signaling the bloc's continued engagement with Moscow amidst global energy uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. The summit, marking 35 years of Asean-Russia relations, also served as a test of U.S. influence in Southeast Asia, as regional leaders prioritized practical concerns such as energy, fertilizer, and technology.
Speaking at the Russia-Asean Business Forum, Anwar emphasized that the presence of Asean leaders demonstrated the bloc's commitment to engagement and its ability to overcome geopolitical pressures. He stated that the leaders were willing to meet with Vladimir Putin, viewing it as a positive sign of Asean's centrality and readiness to focus on regional development and international cooperation, despite Western efforts to isolate Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.