MALAYSIA and Türkiye are reinforcing their defence and strategic partnership, focusing on capability development, technology transfer, and human capital as key pillars for sustaining national defence industries and fostering bilateral collaboration.
The discussions took place during a courtesy call on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim by Professor Dr. Haluk Gorgun, Secretary of Defence Industry at the Turkish Presidential Defence Industry Secretariat, as part of Anwar’s official visit to Turkiye from 6 to 8 January.
Speaking on the meeting, Anwar described it as an opportunity for constructive dialogue aimed at enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.
“We also touched upon existing collaborations facilitated through defence companies in both countries, emphasising that these efforts should be strengthened to a more strategic and comprehensive level,” he said.
He added that the approach is guided by the principles of mutual complementarity and shared benefits, aligning with regional security interests and the preservation of national sovereignty.
During his visit, Prime Minister Anwar was honoured to perform a wreath-laying ceremony at Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, in Ankara, and toured the surrounding complex, including the museum that chronicles Türkiye’s history, sacrifices, and nation-building vision.
“This visit provided profound reflection on the meaning of leadership, dedication to one’s country, and the importance of national values in building a fair and dignified future,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister also delivered a public lecture titled “Power Shift: Strategic Choices for Malaysia and Türkiye” at a hotel in Ankara, sharing insights on geopolitical dynamics and bilateral opportunities.
Anwar is scheduled to attend a formal reception at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, followed by a one-on-one meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional security, and international issues. Both leaders will co-chair the inaugural session of the Malaysia–Turkey High-Level Strategic Council (HLSC).
Tomorrow, Anwar will travel to Istanbul for a roundtable session with Turkish companies, further cementing collaboration in trade, investment, and industrial development. - January 7, 2025
