Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, is visiting Indonesia and Malaysia from February 24-28 to discuss security and defense. The visit highlights Russia’s shift towards Asia post-Ukraine invasion. Indonesia’s interest in joining BRICS and Malaysia’s recent engagement with Russia illustrates the growing diplomatic ties in the region, aimed at countering Western influence.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu has initiated a working visit to Indonesia and Malaysia from February 24 to February 28, focusing on discussions regarding security and defense issues, as reported by Russian news agencies. The Security Council’s press office indicated that during this visit, talks will cover various aspects of bilateral relations, emphasizing security and defense, along with potential collaborations in other mutual interests.
This visit comes in light of geopolitical shifts following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the ensuing sanctions imposed by Western allies. These developments have prompted President Vladimir Putin to strengthen ties with Asian nations as a strategic pivot. Shoigu, who served as Russia’s defense minister until May 2022, asserted that the West’s efforts to weaken Russia through the Ukraine conflict have been unsuccessful.
Moreover, Indonesia expressed its intention in October to join the BRICS group, which represents a significant portion of the global economy, accounting for 35 percent of total output. Russia has significantly promoted this group as a counterbalance against Western influence. This diplomatic engagement aims to foster cooperative economic and political relationships in the region.
In September 2024, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim participated in an economic forum in Russia where he shared the stage with President Putin. This further highlights the growing diplomatic and economic engagements between Russia and Southeast Asian nations, underlining an enriching dialogue within the framework of global economic shifts.
The visit of Sergei Shoigu to Indonesia and Malaysia underscores Russia’s strategic efforts to enhance alliances in Asia in light of Western sanctions following the Ukraine conflict. As Russia looks to fortify its geopolitical standing, engagements with nations eager to establish stronger ties, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, highlight a mutual interest in security and economic cooperation. The aspirations of these countries to join or strengthen ties with groups like BRICS align with Russia’s goals of counteracting Western dominance.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
