Islamabad: Pakistan and Malaysia have pledged to deepen their bilateral cooperation across various sectors including trade, economy, banking, food technology, and agriculture. This commitment was reinforced during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and the visiting Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

According to Press Information Department, the discussions aimed to enhance collaboration on issues of mutual significance. High-profile attendees included Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chairman Pakistan People’s Party MNA Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Minister of Commerce Mr. Jam Kamal Khan, among other senior officials.

During the meeting, President Zardari emphasized the strategic importance of Malaysian-Pakistani relations and expressed hope that Prime Minister Ibrahim’s visit would further solidify this partnership. Additionally, concerns about the ongoing conflict in Gaza were raised, with President Zardari urging the international community to intervene to prevent violence against Palestinians.

A highlight of the visit was the special investiture ceremony where President Zardari awarded the Nishan-e-Pakistan to Prime Minister Ibrahim for his advocacy on Islamic causes and his longstanding friendship with Pakistan. The Malaysian Prime Minister, recognized for his admiration of philosopher Allama Iqbal, has been influential in promoting social justice and humanitarian causes throughout his political tenure. His efforts include combating Islamophobia and promoting interfaith harmony.

The visit concluded with a state dinner hosted by President Zardari in honor of the Malaysian delegation, attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, federal ministers, service chiefs, diplomats, and senior government officials.