Anwar to push inclusive trade, AI governance
Themed "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance", the summit will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6 and 7.
Malaysia's Acting Head of Mission in Brazil, Datuk Mohammad Ali Selamat, said Anwar began his working visit to Rio de Janeiro yesterday and will remain there until Monday for the summit.
He said Anwar's attendance follows an invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
"The prime minister will present Malaysia's perspective on the importance of reinforcing multilateralism and international cooperation in addressing global challenges, particularly in areas such as the economy, international trade and AI.
"As the current Asean chair, Malaysia is promoting regional cooperation through digital transformation, AI governance and more inclusive trade," he said at an online press conference on Thursday.
He said Anwar will focus on global health and climate change challenges, as well as efforts to address them through international cooperation, when delivering Malaysia's country statement during the environment, COP30, and global health sessions on the second day of the summit.
"The prime minister will also highlight efforts to strengthen climate financing and ensure a just and sustainable transition," he said, adding that Anwar is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from BRICS member states and partner countries on the sidelines of the summit.
He said Anwar's country statement reflects Malaysia's commitment to strengthening multilateralism and championing the voice and interests of developing nations, in line with the core objectives of BRICS.
"As the Asean chair in 2025, Malaysia will strive to enhance cooperation between Asean and BRICS to boost regional economic collaboration, contributing to a collective effort towards a fairer and more sustainable global economy."
He added that Malaysia's participation in the summit is in the capacity of a BRICS partner country and as the Asean chair, and that there is no clear direction yet regarding full membership in BRICS.
"Full membership is a matter to be decided by consensus among BRICS member countries, and as of now, Malaysia has not reached that stage."
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