Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's recent working visits to Kazan, Russia, and Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, have resulted in several strategic achievements expected to bolster Malaysia's development agenda and offer long-term benefits to its citizens.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MADANI Government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil highlighted that the visit to Kazan marked a significant advancement in Malaysia's energy security. Russia has committed to supplying crude oil, gas, and diesel to Malaysia under a long-term agreement, setting a new chapter in bilateral relations.

In Ashgabat, another significant milestone was achieved as PETRONAS, through Petronas Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd, secured rights to develop two major gas blocks, bolstering the company's standing as a premier global gas entity. Fahmi expressed pride in these developments, citing the longstanding presence of PETRONAS in Turkmenistan and the subsequent returns that will be reinvested into national development through dividends.

Both developments were instrumental in enabling the Prime Minister to announce a reduction in diesel prices on June 21. Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, noted that these initiatives are expected to positively impact the Malaysian economy.

During his visit to Kazan for the 35th ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit, Anwar was accompanied by Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. The summit facilitated agreements between Malaysia and Russia to enhance cooperation in energy security, trade, investment, tourism, and technology.

In Ashgabat, a Framework Agreement on Long-Term Cooperation for the Development of Hydrocarbon Resources of Turkmenistan was formalized between the governments of Malaysia and Turkmenistan. This agreement establishes a structured platform for expanding collaboration, including potential developments at the Galkynysh field and opportunities in downstream and adjacent sectors such as oil refining, gas processing, and gas chemicals.