Rome: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with her Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim in Rome on Thursday, where they discussed “deepening” strategic ties and enhancing collaboration in the defense sector.
According to Anadolu Agency, the discussions between Meloni and Anwar focused on strengthening strategic collaboration across key sectors such as investment, defense, sustainable energy, and advanced technologies. Anwar shared these details on X, emphasizing the exchange of views on significant regional and global developments. As the Chair of ASEAN, he highlighted Malaysia’s pivotal role in enhancing ASEAN’s engagement with key international partners, including Italy and the EU.
Anwar also expressed a warm welcome to Italian investments in Malaysia, notably those from prominent companies like the defense firm Leonardo, marine company Fincantieri, and oil company Eni. In a move to bolster its defense capabilities, Kuala Lumpur plans to purchase two maritime surveillance aircraft for naval purposes and 28 Leonardo AW149 helicopters, as reported by Free Malaysia Today.
The Malaysian premier underscored the importance of Malaysia’s role in reinforcing ASEAN’s relations with Italy and the EU. Following his visit to Italy, Anwar departed for France to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron as part of his three-nation tour, which will also include a visit to Brazil.