KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the adoption of the Framework of Cooperation 2024-2028 between the Asean and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) blocs as historic. He stated that the collaboration between these two economically vibrant regional groups was significant because it occurred without the influence of major powers. The Prime Minister made these remarks during an interview with Arab News at the Asean-GCC Summit in Riyadh on Friday (Oct 20).
Anwar revealed that the strategic cooperation had been in discussion for several years. The decision to host the summit was made by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with Anwar coordinating for Asean. Various parameters were settled upon to enhance trade and investment mechanisms.
Discussing the bilateral ties between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, Anwar noted the unique link and level of trust between the two countries. He expressed the desire to further strengthen collaboration between them.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, highlighted existing collaborations between Malaysian and Saudi Arabian companies, particularly in infrastructure projects such as green energy and information technology (IT). However, he emphasized the potential for exploring more specific areas and noted the importance of such meetings in facilitating this exploration. He mentioned Saudi Arabia’s shift towards becoming a modern state with technology, a strong economy, and renewable energy as an attractive opportunity for Malaysia and the Asean region.
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Anwar expressed high expectations for the summit, believing it would enhance economic ties between the GCC and Asean. He also emphasized the need to maintain bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, as many Malaysian companies are involved in major projects in Riyadh and the special economic zone NEOM.
Additionally, Anwar proposed a possible Asean-GCC free trade pact, stating that Malaysia is willing to sign new partnerships with the Kingdom in various fields, including green technology. He praised the development investments made by Saudi Arabia under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
