KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's ambassador to Russia, Datuk Cheong Loon Lai, was among the ambassadors of 28 countries who presented their credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Alexander Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow on Tuesday (Nov 5).

The presentation marks Cheong’s official role as the 16th Malaysian ambassador to the Russian Federation.

According to the Russian News Agency (TASS), this ceremony was the first in a series of such events scheduled for 2024.

The last time Putin met with new ambassadors to Russia was on Dec 4, 2023, when the Russian president received credentials from 21 diplomats.

During his address, Putin emphasised that Russia pursues a constructive course in its foreign policy, considering both its interests and global trends.

"Russia is an active participant in international affairs. We pursue a constructive foreign policy course that considers both our national interests and obvious trends in global development," the Russian president said.

He cited the BRICS Summit held in Kazan recently as an example, noting: "It was the peak of the Russian chairmanship and a notable event on the global political agenda.”

He added that Russia does not seek confrontation and hopes that Europe will adopt a rational approach to cooperation with Moscow.

"Russia has always been, and will always be, committed to mutually beneficial cooperation, seeking no confrontation. I trust that a rational, balanced approach to cooperation with Russia will prevail once again," the president emphasised when addressing the ambassadors, including from countries that are considered unfriendly to Russia.

"Throughout history, the relations between your countries and Russia have deep roots, marked by mutually beneficial partnerships, enriching cultural exchanges, and cooperation on resolving pressing international and regional issues," Putin added.

Prior to this appointment, Cheong was the Foreign Ministry’s deputy secretary-general for Multilateral Affairs since 2021.

He had served in Hungary, Ghana, Hong Kong, China and the United States.

Meanwhile, Russia as having presidency in BRICS at present will sent invitations to potential partner countries of the association, with their list agreed upon, President Vladimir Putin said at the ceremony of credentials presentation by foreign ambassadors in the Kremlin Tuesday.

"Establishment of a new category of partner countries has become a significant conclusion of the Kazan Summit.

"The list of potential candidate countries was also agreed upon, to which the Russian presidency will send a relevant invitation," Putin said, Russian News Agency (TASS) reported.

"The status of BRICS partners will be conferred to these countries upon receipt of the positive reaction," the head of state added.- Bernama

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/06/malaysian-ambassador-to-russia-presents-credentials-to-putin