Moscow: Moscow is ready to welcome the arrival of His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who will begin his maiden state visit to Russia starting tomorrow until August 10.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Ambassador to Russia Datuk Cheong Loon Lai stated that Sultan Ibrahim hopes the meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday could open a new chapter in Malaysia-Russia bilateral relations. “His Majesty also expressed hope that the two leaders can hold productive discussions, especially on matters of mutual interest,” he told Bernama.
Cheong noted that Sultan Ibrahim admires the historical and technological values in Russia and has cultivated many interactions with the country in trade and investment since becoming the Sultan of Johor. “His Majesty also shares the same interests as President Putin, such as horse riding,” he added.
This visit, at the invitation of President Putin, is considered historic and significant as it is the first state visit by a Malaysian Head of State to Russia since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1967. Sultan Ibrahim’s itinerary includes visits to the Russian Automotive Technology Development Center (NAMI) and the Tochka Kipeniya Technology and Innovation Center, both ready to receive him.
Cheong explained that Sultan Ibrahim will visit NAMI to inspect and explore Russian automotive technology, particularly in research and development. “This visit provides an opportunity for His Majesty to see first-hand the advancement of Russian technology given His Majesty’s deep interest in the automotive industry,” he said.
The visit to Tochka Kipeniya also presents a chance for Malaysia to explore innovative Russian solutions in drone and robotics development through artificial intelligence applications for public use, security, defence, environment, space projects, and biodrones.
Earlier, Cheong attended a briefing session on the national celebration event at the Kremlin, where Sultan Ibrahim will have his official meeting with President Putin. Present at the session were the Chief of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Datuk Yubazlan Yusof, Chief of Government Ceremonies, Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Rozainor Ramli, and the Grand Chamberlain of Istana Negara Datuk Azuan Effendy Zairakithnaini.
Sultan Ibrahim departed from the Royal Malaysian Air Force Air Base in Subang at 8.55 am (Malaysian time) and is scheduled to arrive in Moscow on Tuesday. Following his stay in Moscow, His Majesty will travel to Kazan from August 8 to 10. Sultan Ibrahim ascended the throne as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong on January 31, 2024.