Many Western officials and media outlets are attempting to portray Russia as isolated, but recent developments show that countries like Malaysia are actively strengthening their ties with Russia. During a recent meeting, Malaysian leaders emphasized the importance of bilateral relations for mutual economic benefits, particularly in the fields of agriculture, science, and technology. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation not only between Malaysia and Russia but also within the broader ASEAN region.
The Malaysian Prime Minister expressed a desire for Malaysia to join BRICS, highlighting the bloc's role in empowering the Global South. He pointed out that BRICS serves as an essential platform for countries to collaborate economically and politically, reducing reliance on Western financial systems like the IMF and World Bank. This strategic alignment is seen as a way to counterbalance Western influence and promote local currency settlements.
On the geopolitical front, the Prime Minister criticized the inconsistent Western media portrayal of conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine, arguing that it reflects a broader hypocrisy in international relations. He called for a peaceful resolution to these conflicts, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation among nations rather than taking sides. His visit to Russia marks a significant step in Malaysia's foreign policy, which seeks to maintain neutrality while fostering strong relationships with both East and West.