ISTANBUL: The establishment of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) marks a historic milestone in Malaysia-Turkiye relations, placing Malaysia among a select group of countries trusted by Turkiye for close collaboration.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the council elevates bilateral cooperation to the highest level in the diplomatic history of both nations.
Anwar said the council is an exclusive mechanism established only with Turkiye’s closest and most trusted diplomatic partners.
“This is an exciting beginning because not many countries have bilateral relations at this level.
“At this high-level council, it must be chaired jointly by the (Turkish) President (Recep Tayyip Erdogan) and myself,” he said during a press conference on the final day of his official visit to Turkiye.
Anwar also described the establishment of the HLSCC as a major step that will open a new chapter in bilateral relations, while strengthening Malaysia’s position as a key strategic partner of Turkiye.
“Of course, the decisions we make will be implemented by the ministers responsible for executing these important strategic decisions,” he said.
Anwar said the HLSCC will focus on expanding strategic cooperation across various high-value sectors, including higher education, research, and new technologies.
“The ties between the two countries will concentrate on investment, trade, and strategic cooperation across various sectors, including higher education, research, and emerging disciplines and technologies such as aviation, artificial intelligence (AI), energy, and rare earth elements.”
Reflecting on the overall visit, Anwar said the treatment Malaysia received was exceptional, covering protocol, state honours, and the warm reception from the Turkish people.
“Not all countries are accorded such treatment, and it clearly reflects Malaysia’s standing in Turkiye’s eyes,” he said.
Anwar said such recognition is rarely given, especially to developing countries.
Anwar concluded his official visit to Turkiye, which took place from Jan 6 to 8, following an invitation from Erdogan.
He was accompanied by his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Ghani.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
