KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that cooperation between Islamic countries and other close allies is the basis for freedom and stability in a diverse global environment.

Speaking at The Strategic Vision Group: Russia-Islamic World meeting in the capital today, he said that the recent participation of several Islamic countries in BRICS reflects the strengthening of new cooperation among member countries.

"We are confident that through effective cooperation between Islamic countries and other close allies, we are able to establish a new understanding. That is why Malaysia chooses to be a part of BRICS.

"We place great importance on this kind of cooperation which shows that we can assert our rights independently in a diverse environment," said the Prime Minister.

Nevertheless, he also stressed the great challenges still facing some Islamic countries, including the issue of ongoing atrocities against Palestine.

His speech also highlighted Malaysia's commitment to strengthening international cooperation to ensure that rights and freedoms can be upheld more effectively.