Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar said that Turkish President Erdogan visited Malaysia today, reaffirming the solid, enduring, and forward-looking partnership between the two countries.
He stated that over the past 20 years, Erdogan has led Turkey through an extraordinary transformation period.
Anwar, speaking at Erdogan's public lecture today, said: “He achieved this with clear goals and conviction, which is both rare and enviable.
“Indeed, President Erdogan has reshaped the contours of Turkey's governance strategy, reaffirmed national pride, and positioned Turkey as an indispensable player on the global stage.”
Anwar described his friendship with Erdogan not as a matter of political expediency, but as one built on steadfast support through shared experiences.
“In times of personal adversity, when many turned away, he extended a helping hand. His support was neither perfunctory nor politically expedient.
“No, it was an expression of sincere brotherhood. I have never forgotten it and will never forget it.”
He praised Erdogan’s extraordinary journey from imprisonment to holding the highest office in the country, turning adversity into a crucible for resilience.
Anwar said that today’s Turkey is stronger, more confident, and more determined than at any time in modern history, largely due to Erdogan’s leadership.
“Today, we welcome not just a head of state but a leader whose influence extends far beyond borders. On behalf of the Malaysian government and people, I am deeply grateful for President Erdogan's visit today.”
On the other side, in a public speech, Erdogan said that Turkey seeks to strengthen bilateral relations through technical cooperation and joint production with Malaysia.
He pointed out that the relationship between Turkey and Malaysia was elevated to a strategic partnership in 2014 and further developed into a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2022, highlighting the deepening relations between the two countries.
“Based on the deeply rooted close relations between the peoples of the two countries, we have begun to take concrete steps to enhance cooperation.
“For us, Malaysia is one of the leading countries in the region, with a population of nearly 35 million, a vibrant economy, and ample human resources.”
Additionally, discussing various collaborations between Turkey and Malaysia, Erdogan mentioned that the facilities of Turkish Aerospace Industries in Malaysia provide employment opportunities for over 100 young Malaysian engineers.
Regarding cooperation between Turkish defense industry companies, he said that the construction project for the second batch of Littoral Mission Ships is underway.
“We have significant cooperation in ANKA-S drones.”