ISTANBUL 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with her Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim in Rome on Thursday and discussed "deepening" strategic ties and collaboration in the defense sector.

Meloni and Anwar's discussions focused on "deepening strategic collaboration across key sectors, including investment, defense, sustainable energy, and advanced technologies," said the Malaysian prime minister on X.

"We also exchanged views on critical regional and global developments. As Chair of ASEAN, I highlighted Malaysia’s role in enhancing ASEAN’s engagement with key international partners such as Italy and EU."

Anwar also welcomed Italian investments in Malaysia, including those by the defense firm Leonardo, the marine company Fincantieri, and the oil company Eni.

Kuala Lumpur also plans to buy two maritime surveillance aircraft for naval use and 28 Leonardo AW149 helicopters, Free Malaysia Today reported.

The premier highlighted Malaysia’s role in strengthening ASEAN relations with Italy and the EU.

Anwar left for France on Thursday, the second leg of his three-nation visit, to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron. The Malaysian prime minister will then travel to Brazil.