KUALA LUMPUR: A new approach is needed in dealing with Covid-19 following the emergence of new variants that have led to an increase in cases around the world, says Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

       Through a posting on his official Facebook page, the Foreign Minister said the matter was conveyed during the special Asean-Russia Foreign Ministers’ meeting which was held virtually on Tuesday.

       “Asean-Russia has focused a lot on joint ventures to deal with Covid-19 since a year ago,” he said.

       In the context of regional issues, Hishammuddin said the pandemic increased the competition of major global powers and diminished the system of multilateralism.

       “In this regard, Asean must remain the core of Asia Pacific while Russia must continue to support it for peace and stability in the region,” he said.

       The special meeting was co-chaired by Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. — Bernama