Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who arrived in Islamabad for a three-day official visit, emphasized the need for policy continuity to drive economic growth and attract investment. He made these remarks during the Pakistan-Malaysia High-Level Business Dialogue in Islamabad earlier today (Thursday).
Ibrahim also stressed the significance of enhancing economic ties through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and highlighted the importance of close collaboration between the business communities of both nations to boost economic cooperation. Additionally, he reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan.
During a joint press conference with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following their meeting, both leaders expressed satisfaction with the historical and fraternal ties between their countries. They confirmed discussions centered on bolstering cooperation across various fields, including regional and international issues such as Palestine and the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
In a bid to enhance trade, the two leaders agreed that Pakistan will export $200 million worth of halal meat and 100,000 metric tonnes of basmati rice to Malaysia annually.
The current trade volume between Malaysia and Pakistan stands at $1.4 billion, with key exports including palm oil, textiles, chemicals, and electronics. Pakistan is Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner in South Asia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz further noted that Anwar Ibrahim had assured him of resolving issues surrounding the import of Pakistani rice into Malaysia. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of their countries’ trade and investment relations, citing opportunities in defense, tourism, agriculture, green energy, skilled labor, and youth empowerment.
Earlier in a one-on-one meeting, the two premiers acknowledged the deep historical ties between their nations and discussed a range of bilateral, regional, and international issues, including challenges faced by the Muslim world. They reiterated their commitment to furthering bilateral cooperation for tangible outcomes.
