Anwar: Dialogue and Diplomacy Must Remain the Foundation for Resolving Global Conflicts
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that dialogue and diplomacy must remain the primary tools for resolving geopolitical tensions and conflicts as the world faces growing instability across several regions.
He said Malaysia remains firmly committed to the belief that lasting peace can only be achieved through negotiations, mutual understanding and respect for international law.
According to Anwar, diplomatic engagement is far more effective than military confrontation, which often prolongs conflicts and worsens humanitarian crises.
“Dialogue and diplomacy must continue to be the foundation in addressing the many conflicts and tensions taking place around the world today.
“Malaysia firmly believes that sustainable peace can only be achieved through negotiations, understanding and adherence to international law,” he said while delivering Malaysia’s national statement at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan today.
The Prime Minister said Malaysia also emphasised the importance of strengthening strategic cooperation between ASEAN and Russia in areas that could generate long-term benefits for all parties.
He highlighted trade and investment, the digital economy, science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI), energy security, food security and the halal industry as among the sectors with significant growth potential.
According to Anwar, closer collaboration in these areas would help strengthen economic resilience across ASEAN while creating new opportunities for businesses and citizens.
“Cooperation in trade and investment, digital technology, science, AI, energy, food security, the halal industry and people-to-people relations should continue to be enhanced.
“These efforts will not only benefit Malaysia and Russia but also contribute to sustainable growth across the ASEAN region,” he said.
Anwar noted that the world is currently facing numerous challenges, including economic uncertainty, armed conflicts and rapidly evolving geopolitical dynamics.
In light of these developments, he said ASEAN and Russia have ample room to deepen cooperation based on mutual respect, shared benefits and a commitment to global peace and prosperity.
The Prime Minister also addressed the ongoing situation in the Middle East, reiterating Malaysia’s firm position on the conflict in Gaza.
He once again called for an immediate end to violence and urged that humanitarian aid be allowed to reach civilians without obstruction.
Anwar stressed that the Palestinian people must continue to be granted the right to determine their own future.
“Malaysia remains steadfast in its position that violence in Gaza must stop immediately.
“Humanitarian assistance must be delivered without restrictions, and the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination must be upheld,” he said.
He also condemned the expansion of Israeli military operations into Lebanon and criticised attacks targeting the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
According to Anwar, any action that threatens the safety of United Nations peacekeepers would only worsen the situation and undermine regional stability.
He said Malaysia would continue to play an active role on the international stage by promoting peace, strengthening multilateral cooperation and defending the principles of justice and international law.
Anwar expressed confidence that stronger ASEAN-Russia ties could open a new chapter of cooperation that benefits member states while contributing to global peace, stability and shared prosperity.
