NextFin news, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin may meet during the 47th ASEAN Summit scheduled for October 26-28, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Prime Minister Anwar announced that Trump personally informed him of his intention to attend the summit despite existing trade disagreements. Chinese Premier Li Qiang has also confirmed his participation. Putin, after a recent meeting with Anwar in Beijing, stated he is seriously considering attending the event.
The ASEAN Summit, held annually by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, brings together leaders from its 10 member countries—Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia—to discuss economic, political, security, and socio-cultural development in the region.
Malaysia is chairing the summit this year, focusing on themes of inclusivity and sustainability, with priorities including regional peace, technological advancement, and economic growth. The summit also serves as a platform for dialogue with major global powers, including the US, China, and potentially Russia.
Besides Trump, Putin, and Li Qiang, other confirmed attendees include Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, leaders of BRICS and the G20 respectively, highlighting the summit's global significance.
Prime Minister Anwar emphasized Malaysia's geopolitical importance and the country's commitment to political stability and economic clarity to attract investment. He also mentioned Malaysia's plans to present a strategy for developing its semiconductor industry during the summit.
The potential meeting between Trump and Putin at the summit follows recent communications between the two leaders, including planned phone calls and a meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, in August 2025, where they discussed the war in Ukraine and other geopolitical issues.
Sources: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's statements reported by New Straits Times, Malaysiakini, Wilayah.com.my, BusinessToday Malaysia, and Obozrevatel; official announcements from the Malaysian government and ASEAN Secretariat.
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