Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, issued a joint statement during Anwar’s official visit to commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations. This visit marks Anwar’s second as Prime Minister, underscoring the strengthening ties between these nations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to elevating their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on mutual growth and stability. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation across various sectors including trade, defense, education, and cultural exchanges, while also addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and regional security.
A notable aspect of their dialogue was the condemnation of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Both nations voiced a strong stance against the Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, calling for immediate ceasefire and adherence to international law. They also reaffirmed their support for Palestine’s right to self-determination and urged the UN Security Council to reconsider Palestine’s full membership application.
In terms of economic collaboration, both leaders recognized the potential for growth and vowed to boost trade and investment, particularly in the digital economy, renewable energy, and the semiconductor sector. They agreed to host the next Malaysia-Egypt Joint Commission Meeting to further these goals.
Defense and security cooperation was another focal point, with plans to enhance joint training and counter-terrorism initiatives. The recent establishment of Malaysia’s Defence Attaché Office in Cairo highlights this commitment.
Education and cultural ties were also strengthened, with Egypt offering scholarships to Malaysian students and both nations promoting cultural exchanges to foster closer people-to-people relations.
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On the international front, Malaysia pledged to work with Egypt to advance ASEAN-Egypt relations and expressed its readiness to collaborate closely as the upcoming Chair of ASEAN in 2025. Both countries also discussed the potential benefits of Egypt’s engagement with ASEAN through its role in the African Union.
Further, the leaders addressed climate change, advocating for a balance between climate ambition and sustainable development. They also expressed a shared vision for advancing the Global South Agenda, with hopes of collaborating within the BRICS framework.
The visit concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development and Egypt’s Ministry of Awqaf, signifying a new era of cooperation in Islamic affairs.
Prime Minister Anwar expressed his gratitude for Egypt’s hospitality and looks forward to hosting President El-Sisi in Malaysia, further solidifying this burgeoning partnership.
