PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic and strategic cooperation with Malaysia, emphasizing the need to “join hands” for mutually beneficial projects that combine the expertise and resources of both nations.
Addressing a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude for the exceptionally warm welcome extended to him and his delegation, describing Malaysia as a “second home.” He praised PM Ibrahim’s vision and leadership for transforming Malaysia into a strong regional economy.
“Pakistan wants to join hands with Malaysia not only to benefit from your experience but to launch joint ventures and projects where our expertise can come together,” he stated, highlighting potential collaboration in technology, artificial intelligence, and economic growth sectors.
PM Shehbaz noted that around 150,000 Pakistanis were contributing to Malaysia’s development and underscored the potential of harnessing this human capital to strengthen both economies. He also welcomed Malaysia’s interest in importing $200 million worth of Pakistani meat, assuring adherence to Halal certification and market-based pricing mechanisms.
During the talks, both leaders reviewed progress in trade, investment, IT, energy, education, infrastructure, and the Halal industry, with the Foreign Office confirming that several agreements and MoUs would be signed to expand cooperation in existing and new areas.
The Pakistani premier also announced the launch of an Urdu translation of PM Ibrahim’s book Script, which he praised for its insights on sustainability, innovation, and research.
Meanwhile, PM Anwar Ibrahim lauded Pakistan’s professionals and students for their contributions to Malaysia and welcomed enhanced cooperation in STEM education, information technology, and counterterrorism efforts. He expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s “clear and principled stance” on Palestine, stressing the need for global unity in calling for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza.
Earlier, PM Shehbaz was accorded a guard of honour at the Perdana Putra Complex, where he inspected the ceremonial contingent. He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
In a social media post, PM Ibrahim said the meeting marked “a new chapter of strategic cooperation” between Malaysia and Pakistan, built on friendship, trust, and shared aspirations for progress.
The Foreign Office emphasized that the visit reflected the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Malaysia, rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and close collaboration across multiple sectors.
