Malaysia secures RM8.13 bill in potential investments from Anwar's Italy visit
Anwar said potential investments were also secured in the electric and electronics (E&E) sector, as well as oil and gas services and equipment.
Malaysia, meanwhile, generated RM425 million in potential exports for oleochemical products, biofuel feed, and livestock food additives.
The bilateral meetings involved 41 Italian companies from the manufacturing, services and trade sectors and government agencies.
Anwar said several key projects between Malaysia and Italy were reaffirmed during his official meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
"In my meeting with the Italian prime minister, which was the main highlight, Prime Minister Meloni and I reaffirmed several ongoing projects that are under discussion and consideration.
"An interesting development is Italy's wish to elevate bilateral ties, as well as those between the European Union (EU) and Asean, as they see Asean's potential as a key driver in regional activities and economic development.
"As we know, we achieved several framework agreements on economic activity. A project between Petronas and Italy-based European company ENI, known for its strength in biochemicals and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS)," he said at a press conference with Malaysian media yesterday.
Anwar Ibrahim was accorded a guard of honour upon his arrival at Chigi Palace, the official residence of his Italian counterpart.
Anwar was received by Meloni before the national anthems of both countries were played.
Meloni then introduced her delegation, which included Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, before Anwar introduced his.
During the talks, Anwar also conveyed Malaysia's firm position on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
"We expressed our gratitude for Italy's agreement and clarity in its statement urging a halt to the attacks on Gaza and allowing humanitarian aid access to the area," he said.
Anwar extended an invitation to Meloni to visit Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with the upcoming Asean Summit with Dialogue Partners in October.
Anwar said, in his discussion with Tajani, they addressed trade, investment, and EU–Asean cooperation, while also reiterating Malaysia's position on Gaza, Iran, and Israel.
"We reiterated our firm stance on ensuring justice in response to Israel's aggression in Gaza and the provocations against Iran, which led to Iran's retaliatory actions," he said.
"Nonetheless, our central focus was on the pursuit of peace to ensure regional security."
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is currently undertaking a series of visits to three countries – Italy, France, and Brazil – beginning July 1.
This series of visits by the Prime Minister is part of Malaysia's ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic cooperation at the global level.
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[1] GBP/EUR exchange rate: 1.16891 as at 30 June, 2025 (SimCorp Accounting) Not for release, publication or distribution in whole or in part in, into or from any jurisdiction where to do so would constitute a violation of the relevant laws of such jurisdiction. Logo –
