BANGKOK – On Thursday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha pledged to boost commerce.

By 2025, Malaysia and Thailand want to trade $30 billion. Prayuth and Anwar focused on economic development along their common border.

Both sides signed memorandums of cooperation on economic digitalization and renewable energy technology development.

At a joint press conference, Prayuth claimed the summit had significant results for future bilateral relations.

The leaders agreed that Malaysia’s mediation will advance peace talks on southern Thailand’s Muslim separatist insurgency. In Kuala Lumpur on February 21, rebel-government talks will restart.

Before the conference, a Malaysian negotiator visited Thailand. On Thursday, Anwar said he was “optimistic” about a solution.

Prayuth and Anwar also discussed Myanmar. Anwar said they discussed the significance of positive involvement with Myanmar’s military, but did not disclose details.

Anwar assumed office in November. Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore leaders have met him.