Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia and Poland are set to enhance their collaboration in crucial sectors such as the halal industry, defence, digital technology, and green hydrogen, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. During a joint press conference with Polish President Andrzej Duda, who is on an official visit to Malaysia, Anwar emphasized Poland’s growing importance as a partner in the European Union due to its strength in modern technology.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted Poland’s remarkable growth in technology, artificial intelligence, food technology, and green energy since its last high-level visit to Malaysia in 1999. He expressed enthusiasm for bolstering bilateral relations in various fields, including defence, food technology, trade, investments, and renewable energy, leveraging Poland’s expertise in green hydrogen.

Anwar also welcomed the significant rise in bilateral trade, noting a 19.5 percent increase from 2023 to 2024, which underscores the potential for further cooperation between Malaysia and Poland. Both leaders engaged in extensive discussions on enhancing exports of palm oil, wood and rubber products, and electrical and electronics, while exploring green hydrogen initiatives.

Meanwhile, President Duda, who arrived in Malaysia for a three-day visit, acknowledged the significant political and economic transformation Poland has undergone since 1999. He noted that Malaysia is now Poland’s second-largest trade partner in the region, and he is keen to see increased market access for Polish products in Malaysia.

Duda submitted a non-paper to Anwar, prepared by Poland’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, detailing proposals to expand the export of Polish agri-food products to Malaysia, including poultry meat and pork. He also encouraged Malaysian investors to explore opportunities in Poland, emphasizing the availability of incentives such as grants, tax reliefs, and workforce training.

On energy cooperation, Duda highlighted Poland’s position as the fifth-largest hydrogen producer globally and third-largest in the European Union. He expressed Poland’s openness to collaborating with Malaysia in green and renewable energy technologies, focusing on research and development in fuels and hydrogen. Duda assured Anwar that Poland possesses skilled experts and a large market to support such ventures.