Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia and Guinea-Bissau have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with focus areas including the halal industry, Islamic finance, energy, and capacity building. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he had encouraged Malaysian corporations, including Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and FGV Holdings, to explore potential ventures in Guinea-Bissau.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed hope that Petronas, FGV, and other companies will explore opportunities not only within Malaysia and Guinea-Bissau but also use them as a base to expand further into Africa and beyond. He made these remarks during a joint press conference with visiting Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.

Anwar highlighted Malaysia's ongoing commitment to supporting capacity-building efforts through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), which offers scholarships and specialised training across sectors including governance, agrotechnology, and public administration. Discussions with Guinea-Bissau also explored potential collaboration in semiconductors, oil and gas, and food technology, with a focus on further implementing MTCP programmes tailored to Guinea-Bissau's developmental priorities.

The Prime Minister also emphasized Embalo's strong diplomatic ties with key global powers such as the United Arab Emirates, France, Russia, the United States, and several African nations. He noted that Malaysia's practice of neutrality and balanced foreign policy aligns closely with President Embalo's vision for Guinea-Bissau.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warmly welcomed the deepening of ties between the two nations, stating, "Malaysia will be your second home. My colleagues, the people of Malaysia, and I are very pleased that you have taken the initiative to establish a new relationship based on trust and affinity with Malaysia." Embalo is currently undertaking a three-day official visit to Malaysia, marking the first-ever visit by a head of state from Guinea-Bissau.