Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised President Vladimir Putin for steering Russia's development and pledged to deepen ties, saying there was "enormous potential" to enhance regional trade relations already focused on semiconductors.

Anwar, who is on two-day visit to Moscow, said it would be to Malaysia's benefit if Russia shared its achievements and agreed to "collaborate in all fields of endeavor." Both countries are discussing tie-ups ranging from aerospace and advanced technologies to agriculture and food security.