CAIRO: Malaysia and Egypt have agreed to work towards elevating their bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership in the near future, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. Anwar highlighted both nations’ commitment to strengthening their bilateral ties in various areas for mutual interest and benefit. He revealed that Malaysia would host the next Joint Commission Meeting and Bilateral Consultation in 2025, following a joint press conference with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the Al-Ittihadiya Palace.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar’s visit to Egypt included a courtesy call on President El-Sisi, followed by a four-eye meeting and a bilateral meeting. The discussions between the leaders emphasized expanding cooperation in trade and investment, higher education, cultural affairs, defense and security, agro-commodities, and tourism. Both countries aim to leverage each other’s strengths and explore new potentials such as digital economy, renewable energy infrastruc
ture development, transportation and maritime domain, as well as manufacturing and semiconductor sectors.

Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s position as an important semiconductor hub in the region and expressed readiness to collaborate in this field. As the Chair of ASEAN in 2025, Malaysia expressed its readiness to work closely with Egypt to promote ASEAN-Egypt relations. Anwar encouraged Egypt to advance its engagement with ASEAN, highlighting its role as a founding member of the African Union.

Anwar also expressed hope for close cooperation with Egypt and other BRICS members towards Malaysia’s full membership in BRICS, aiming to advance the Global South Agenda. The BRICS Leaders endorsed Malaysia for the Modalities of BRICS Partner Country Category at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. He noted that El-Sisi’s support is crucial for Malaysia’s application to become a full member of BRICS.

Anwar commended Egypt’s tradition as a significant voice for the global South, acknowledging its lead
ership in independence and neutrality, consistent with the ASEAN position of centrality. He affirmed Malaysia’s commitment to engaging with all countries, maintaining independence, and fostering collaboration, particularly in trade investments.