Head of Tatarstan, Malaysian PM discuss possibility of opening direct flights between Kazan, Malaysia

KAZAN. June 17 (Interfax) - The possibility of opening direct flights between Kazan and Malaysia was discussed at a meeting between the head of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the press service of the head of the republic said on Tuesday.

Ibrahim arrived in Kazan to participate in the Russia-ASEAN summit, which is being held in the capital of Tatarstan from June 17 to 19.

"The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has declared Kazan the cultural capital of the Islamic world this year. Thanks to direct connectivity, more tourists from Malaysia could see your beautiful republic," the press service quoted Ibrahim as saying.

He also said that he is very glad to be in Kazan.

"I am glad that Mr. Putin decided to hold this summit specifically in Kazan," Ibrahim also said at the meeting.

Minnikhanov in turn said that Tatarstan is actively participating in the development of Russian-Malaysian cooperation.

The priority area for interaction is trade, economic and investment cooperation.

"Tatarstan, as an export-oriented republic with a powerful industrial potential, is ready to supply the widest range of products. We should work more actively on joint investment projects," Minnikhanov said.