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VLADIVOSTOK – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has signalled the country's commitment to geopolitical independence through its pursuit of BRICS membership.
Malaysia's Ambassador to Russia, Datuk Cheong Loon Lai has clarified that joining BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) does not mean abandoning existing economic alliances. Instead, it's a strategic move to diversify options and tap into the vast trade potential of the Global South.
“Malaysia's participation (in BRICS) will reflect our position as an independent nation, capable of forging friendships with various countries and not hostile to any nation in terms of Malaysia’s foreign relations.
“Although there is pressure from certain parties, who often (try to) ensure whether you are with us or against us, this is the signal we want to send to the outside world,” he said.
Cheong made the statement to a group of Malaysian media on Tuesday, as a prelude to the Prime Minister's official visit to Vladivostok, in conjunction with the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), which will take place over two days at the Far Eastern Federal University, starting on Wednesday.
The EEF is an annual economic forum organised by the Roscongress Foundation, specifically supporting the economic development of Russia’s Far East and expanding international cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
With the theme 'Combining Strength to Create New Potential,' the 9th plenary session of the EEF will see the honour bestowed upon Anwar to deliver the keynote address in front of high-level representatives of participating countries, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders.
Meanwhile, media reports indicated that Malaysia’s desire to join BRICS was first expressed by the Prime Minister in June, with the economic bloc estimated to control one-fifth of global trade and representing 40 per cent of the world's population.
BRICS, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is now joined by Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, with an estimated 32 other countries expressing interest in joining the bloc.
Cheong also said that Malaysia’s participation as a member country would present an opportunity for the nation to share its expertise and experience with Russia, particularly in sectors such as Islamic banking or the halal industry.
“In regard to our relations with Russia, they have approached us and shown interest in learning about the Islamic financial system.
“And in the context of Russia, they have a sizable Muslim population, and there are even regions that they consider as Muslim regions,” he added.
Cheong stated that Malaysia’s inclusion in BRICS will be finalised at a summit in Kazan, scheduled to take place in mid-October.
He further stressed that the Prime Minister will take the opportunity during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his visit to Vladivostok to once again express Malaysia’s hopes of being accepted into the economic bloc. - AWANI