PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reinforced Malaysia's engagement with Central Asia by holding high-level discussions with Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during a transit stop in Tashkent, broadening bilateral cooperation ahead of his participation in the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan.
Although not part of his official itinerary, the meeting provided both leaders with an opportunity to advance strategic collaboration across key sectors, including trade, investment, education, tourism and the halal industry, while strengthening diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Anwar, in his official Facebook page, wrote: “Energy security emerged as a central theme of the discussions, with Malaysia and Uzbekistan identifying significant opportunities to expand cooperation in the oil and gas sector as part of wider efforts to promote sustainable economic growth, enhance energy resilience and diversify bilateral economic engagement.”
The leaders also emphasised the importance of cultural and intellectual cooperation, highlighting the need to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Islamic civilisation and its longstanding scholarly traditions, which have played a significant role in shaping global knowledge and human development.
Anwar welcomed Uzbekistan's growing role in Central Asia and praised Tashkent's commitment to expanding engagement with ASEAN member states, describing stronger links between the region and Southeast Asia as beneficial to economic integration and broader regional cooperation.
The Tashkent meeting formed part of Anwar's wider diplomatic mission, which will continue in Kazan, where he is scheduled to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, participate in engagements with business leaders at the Kazan IT Park and hold discussions aimed at strengthening trade, investment and digital cooperation.
The Prime Minister is also expected to hold a courtesy meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit.
Before departing Uzbekistan, Anwar extended his best wishes to the Uzbekistan national football team as it prepares to begin its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Colombia, concluding a stopover that combined diplomatic outreach with efforts to deepen Malaysia's strategic partnerships beyond Southeast Asia. - June 17, 2026
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