Malaysia and Turkmenistan Commit to Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation with Joint Commission
Kuala Lumpur, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced on Thursday that Malaysia and Turkmenistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through the establishment of a joint commission. The initiative, which will be implemented by the foreign ministers of both nations early next year, aims to elevate cooperation across various sectors.
“We are both committed to ensuring that the level of cooperation is elevated through the establishment of a joint commission between the two countries. The foreign ministers will follow through on this collaboration early next year,” Prime Minister Anwar said during a joint press conference with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow at Putrajaya.
Anwar expressed Malaysia’s appreciation for Turkmenistan’s continued support, particularly in facilitating the operations of PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd in Turkmenistan. He also lauded President Berdimuhamedow’s comprehensive vision for development, which encompasses trade, investments, cultural advancements, and the promotion of international peace.
“I am particularly impressed by the President’s interest not only in enhancing trade and investments between the countries but also in his very comprehensive view of what development entails, including the cultural sphere, and his promotion of international peace, which we fully support,” he stated.
Broader Collaboration and Shared Goals
During a joint statement, the two leaders emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in transportation, culture, education, tourism, and sports. They highlighted the potential of exchange programs between institutions of higher education and research institutes to promote stronger people-to-people connections.
Both leaders welcomed the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in higher education and tourism, which they viewed as key steps in fostering closer ties.
Global Issues and Peace Initiatives
The leaders reiterated their commitment to resolving international challenges, including the Palestine issue, through peaceful means in alignment with international law and United Nations resolutions. They emphasized the necessity of unimpeded humanitarian aid to Palestinian territories and advocated for a just and lasting solution to achieve peace and stability in the region.
Economic Ties on the Rise
Trade between Malaysia and Turkmenistan has experienced significant growth, with total trade from January to October 2024 increasing by 74.8% to RM63.28 million (US$13.90 million) compared to RM36.19 million (US$7.91 million) during the same period last year. In 2023, Turkmenistan ranked as Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner among Central Asian nations, with total trade valued at RM48.62 million (US$10.57 million).
Diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Turkmenistan were officially established in 1992, and both nations continue to build on this enduring partnership.
President Berdimuhamedov’s two-day visit included an official welcoming ceremony at the Perdana Putra Complex and discussions aimed at further strengthening relations in strategic areas.
