Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged Asean and Russia to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, digital, science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI), energy, food security, the halal industry, and people-to-people exchanges during a plenary session of the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan on June 19, 2026. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy must remain the foundation for handling conflicts and geopolitical tensions, stating that “Malaysia remains committed to the principle that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, understanding, and respect for international law.” On West Asia, Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s stand demanding an immediate cessation of violence in Gaza, unhindered humanitarian aid, and protection of Palestinian self-determination, while condemning the expansion of military actions by the Israeli Zionist regime into Lebanon and any attack on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil). Yesterday’s summit marked the 35th anniversary of Asean-Russia relations, which began in 1991 in Kuala Lumpur, and was also attended by Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, this year’s Asean chair, along with other Asean leaders. The summit is expected to adopt four outcome documents: the Kazan Declaration, joint statements on energy and cultural cooperation, and a comprehensive plan of action for the Asean-Russia Strategic Partnership 2026-2030.