Anwar wraps up Russia trip, highlights Tatarstan's Islamic-Christian ties
KAZAN: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today wrapped up his four-day official visit to Russia, describing the Republic of Tatarstan as a model of religious harmony and regional collaboration.
Speaking at a press conference here, Anwar praised Tatarstan's strong Islamic heritage and its cooperative relationship with the Orthodox Christian Church, which he said reflected "the spirit of peaceful coexistence".
"Tatarstan is a strong Islamic region, but what struck me was its close collaboration with the Orthodox Church, which represents nearly 50 per cent of the population here. This is a powerful example of interfaith harmony," he said.
Anwar said he took the opportunity, along with ministers in his delegation, to engage with the Orthodox Church to express Malaysia's admiration for Tatarstan's inclusive approach, ahead of Friday prayers at the historic Mardzhani Mosque.
The prime minister also highlighted the outcomes of his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, describing them as productive and forward-looking, particularly in the areas of trade, agriculture, halal economy and education.
He said Putin had reiterated Russia's support for strengthening bilateral ties and facilitating the resumption of direct Aeroflot flights to Malaysia to boost tourism and business travel.
Anwar also acknowledged Putin's openness to a new independent investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, reaffirming Malaysia's call for justice based on truth and impartiality.
"Putin expressed his sympathy for the victims' families and said Russia is ready to cooperate, provided the investigative body is truly independent and free from political pressure," he said.
"Malaysia's position is firm. We want the truth, but we do not act based on assumptions or accusations without evidence."
He added that both sides also discussed enhancing trade in agro-commodities, including palm oil and cocoa, and resolving issues that hinder smoother bilateral cooperation.
"We touched on chemical industries, furniture, retail and infrastructure development, as well as digital and artificial intelligence sectors," he said.
Anwar's visit to Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, included delivering keynote speeches at the Strategic Vision Group Russia–Islamic World dialogue and the KazanForum 2025 plenary session.
He met with Tatarstan's Rais Rustam Minnikhanov, prominent Islamic scholars and muftis, as well as Turkmenistan's national leader and former president Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow.
Anwar also held sideline discussions with other regional representatives and ministers.
On education ties, Anwar said discussions are underway to reinstate Malay language studies in Russian universities and introduce Russian language courses at Universiti Malaya.
He also welcomed a proposal for Malaysian diplomats and young officers to study Arabic, French and Russian to better prepare for global assignments.
Anwar is scheduled to return to Kuala Lumpur from Kazan International Airport tonight.
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