KAZAN: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, expressed hope that his visit to Kazan would inspire stronger ties between Malaysia and the Russian Republic of Tatarstan.

In his address to the Rais of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, at the Kazan Kremlin Presidential Palace here yesterday, Sultan Ibrahim said he is pleased with the growing engagement bet­ween the people of Malaysia and Tatarstan in economic, institutional and cultural cooperation.

“We hold your leadership in the Strategic Vision Group ‘Russia-lslamic World’ in the highest regard. It stands as a testament to your dedication to the advancement of the Muslim ummah,” said His Majesty.

Looking ahead, Sultan Ibrahim highlighted significant potential for enhanced collaboration in sectors such as petrochemicals, innovation, Islamic finance and the halal industry.

“I also take pleasure in witnessing the expansion of academic exchanges between our institutions of higher learning,” said His Majesty, Bernama reported.

The King noted that Malaysian and Russian universities, inclu­ding several in Kazan, have deve­loped strong partnerships, inclu­ding joint research in emerging fields such as engineering, energy and computer science.

“I commend the ongoing colla­bo­ration between Kazan Federal University and Kazan National Research Technological Univer­sity with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, located in my state, Johor,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

His Majesty also said that the prospect of resuming direct air connectivity between Russia and Malaysia has been encouraging, which will open new avenues for tourism, commerce and en­­hance people-to-people exchan­ges.

“I hope to see more students and tourists from Tatarstan choosing Malaysia as their preferred destination,” the King said.

In the meantime, Sultan Ibrahim expressed his joy at renewing his close friendship with Minnikhanov at the historical landmark of the Kazan Kremlin.

“Rakh-mat – your generosity and warmth will long be remembered,” he said.

Before the meeting, His Majesty was warmly welcomed by Min­nik­hanov at the Kazan Krem­lin, followed by a photo session against the scenic backdrop of the Volga River.

The audience was followed by a reception hosted by Minnikhanov in honour of His Majesty at the Banquet Hall of the palace.

Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan, one of Russia’s most prominent autonomous republics, known for its cultural diversity and Muslim-majority population.

Sultan Ibrahim arrived in Kazan yesterday morning for the second segment of his state visit to Russia at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin.