KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is set to highlight the critical role of multilateralism and Malaysia’s dedication to fostering a balanced, inclusive world order at the 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The summit, scheduled for July 6-7, will see Anwar addressing key global challenges, including economic cooperation, artificial intelligence governance, and climate action.
Acting Head of Mission at the Malaysian embassy in Brasilia, Datuk Mohammad Ali Selamat, confirmed that Anwar will deliver two key statements during the summit. The first, titled “Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Affairs and Artificial Intelligence,” will be presented during the session for BRICS partner countries on Sunday. The second, focusing on “Environment, COP30 and Global Health,” will be delivered on Monday.
Mohammad Ali noted that these interventions align with Malaysia’s commitment to amplifying the voices of developing nations within global platforms. “The Prime Minister will stress the need for constructive dialogue and inclusive collaboration, as BRICS serves as a crucial platform for addressing shared challenges like sustainable development and global stability,” he said.
Anwar’s participation follows his official visit to France and marks his second trip to Brazil, having previously attended the G20 Summit as a guest last year. Both visits were at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
As ASEAN Chair for 2025, Malaysia aims to strengthen ties between ASEAN and BRICS to enhance regional economic cooperation. The summit’s theme, ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,’ resonates with Malaysia’s priorities, including digital transformation, AI governance, and equitable trade.
Malaysia officially became a BRICS Partner Country on January 1 this year, joining other nations such as Belarus, Bolivia, and Thailand. The BRICS bloc, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, and China, has expanded to include South Africa, Egypt, Iran, and the UAE, among others.
During his visit, Anwar is also scheduled to meet with Brazil’s aerospace giant Embraer, underscoring potential economic collaborations. His delegation includes Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Brazil has grown significantly, reaching RM20.35 billion in 2024, a 14.6% increase from the previous year. Key Malaysian exports include electrical and electronic products, rubber goods, and palm oil-based items, while imports from Brazil feature metalliferous ores, halal meat, and crude petroleum.
“Brazil remains a vital trading partner in Latin America, particularly for E&E and rubber products. Our collaboration in food security and green energy will also be a focus,” Mohammad Ali added.
Rio de Janeiro, the host city, is famed for its scenic landmarks, vibrant culture, and the world-renowned Carnaval, making it a fitting backdrop for discussions on global cooperation. -BERNAMA
