ISLAMABAD: Malaysia has expressed its readiness to expand cooperation with Pakistan in trade, investment, education, tourism, artificial intelligence and the halal industry, as the two countries seek to translate longstanding political ties into stronger economic and people-to-people links.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan Dato’ Mohammad Azhar bin Mazlan made the remarks during a visit to the National Press Club (NPC) in Islamabad, where he participated in its “Meet the Press” programme.
He was welcomed by NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial, Secretary General Dr Furqan Rao and senior journalists.
Expanding Economic Ties
The high commissioner said Pakistan and Malaysia had significant opportunities to strengthen cooperation across several sectors, recalling that the two countries signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement in 2019.
He described Pakistan as an important market for Malaysian palm oil, saying it ranked among Malaysia’s fourth- or fifth-largest trading partners in the sector.
He also highlighted joint ventures between Pakistani and Malaysian companies in edible oil refining in Karachi and Port Qasim, describing them as examples of growing economic cooperation.
Education and Defence
Around 5,000 Pakistani students are studying at Malaysian universities, the high commissioner said, adding that Malaysia hosts approximately 200,000 international students from around the world.
He said Pakistani students could also pursue qualifications in Malaysia recognised by universities in countries including the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.
Defence cooperation was another area of continued engagement. The high commissioner said meetings of the bilateral defence cooperation committee were scheduled this week.
Regional Cooperation
The high commissioner said the close relationship between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was helping advance bilateral relations.
On regional developments, he described Saudi Arabia as a sovereign state and a close friend of Malaysia, condemning the attack on the kingdom and expressing solidarity with its government and people.
He also praised Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and reconciliation, including through the Islamabad peace understanding, saying Malaysia valued Islamabad’s efforts to advance stability within the region and beyond.
Press Club Visit
Earlier, NPC President Abdul Razzaq Sial welcomed the high commissioner and highlighted the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and Malaysia.
Secretary General Dr Furqan Rao briefed the visiting dignitary on the press club’s administrative structure, governing body, membership, facilities and initiatives to promote members’ welfare.
The visit concluded with the high commissioner planting a sapling on the press club’s lawn and touring its various departments. Senior journalists and other officials were also present.
