ISLAMABAD: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in the wake of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s bilateral visit to Pakistan, hosted a Pakistan-Malaysia think-tank discussion with its Malaysian counterpart, the International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) on Wednesday.
According to an ISSI press release Dr. Maszlee bin Malik, former Minister of Education and Chairman of IAIS led the Malaysian delegation.
The dialogue focused on Pakistan-Malaysia ties and Pakistan’s growing relations with the ASEAN region. During the event the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ISSI and IAIS was also renewed, marking steady progress in their partnership aimed at reinforcing different aspects of Pakistan-Malaysia ties and fostering closer cooperation between the two think-tanks.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood extended a warm welcome to the visiting delegation, adding that the dialogue marked a significant moment in the evolving relationship between ISSI and IAIS. He thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for visiting Pakistan.
He noted the exceptional cordiality of Pakistan-Malaysia ties and Malaysia’s steadfast support to the growth and expansion of the Pakistan-ASEAN relationship. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood also stressed the importance of ISSI-IAIS institutional collaboration in reinforcing different aspects of Pakistan-Malaysia ties and broader policy objectives on both sides.
Prof. Dr. Maszlee bin Malik highlighted the deep-rooted historical relations between Malaysia and Pakistan, especially the strong people-to-people links that predate the establishment of both countries. He emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and highlighted the significance of collaboration between think-tanks in addressing regional and international challenges, enhancing mutual understanding, and advancing Malaysia-Pakistan ties, especially in the fields of education, IT, AI, and tourism. He expressed hope for future cooperation, especially in ASEAN as Malaysia prepares to assume the chairmanship in 2025.
Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at ISSI, highlighted the ISSI’s efforts in boosting Pakistan’s ties with ASEAN, including through close cooperation with ACI (ASEAN Committee in Islamabad). He also noted the establishment of “ASEAN Corner” in ISSI Library last year to create awareness and support for partnership with ASEAN.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG, ISSI highlighted the significance of strengthening Pakistan-Malaysia bilateral relations and advancing collaboration in major areas such as diplomacy, trade, and enhancing cooperation on multilateral forums.
