KUALA LUMPUR: Russia is investing in enhancing its connectivity with ASEAN as the global economic centre continues to shift towards the region.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk stated that Moscow considers ASEAN an important partner with mutually beneficial trade and economic relations.
“ASEAN is a very important partner,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
Overchuk described Western sanctions as a constant reality that will not stop Russia from pursuing cooperation and development with its partners.
“Let me tell you that our country has been under sanctions probably for the last 125 years,” he said.
He emphasised that Russia maintains and improves trade relations while working to enhance connectivity between regions and economic organisations.
Overchuk noted Russia’s extensive experience in nuclear power generation and its implementation of nuclear power station projects worldwide.
“Nuclear power is a clean power, of course,” he said, highlighting its sustainability compared to weather-dependent renewable sources.
He revealed that Russia is currently the only country operating a small modular reactor, with another under construction and an export arrangement in Asia.
Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof previously stated that nuclear power is being considered to strengthen ASEAN’s energy security.
Fadillah confirmed the Malaysian government is examining nuclear power’s role in its long-term energy strategy for security and sustainability. – Bernama
