ISLAMABAD: The Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, on Wednesday stressed the need for strengthened collaboration between Malaysia and Pakistan in the Halal meat industry. He said that their huge potential for the production of Halal meat, chicken, and dairy products.
The remarks were made during a guest lecture at the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) as part of the ‘Distinguished Lecture Series’ with the theme ‘Diplomatic Reflections,’ focused on ‘Pakistan-Malaysia Relations in the New Era.’
Highlighting the robust trade relationship between the two countries, the High Commissioner stated that Pakistan is Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner export destination and second-largest import source. He noted the increase in palm oil imports by Pakistan from Malaysia since the Malaysian Free Trade Agreement (FTA) came into effect in 2008, with 9% of palm oil imported from Malaysia.
As of January 2023, Malaysia hosts over 100,000 Pakistani diaspora, and the envoy emphasized the potential for further cooperation in elevating the existing Strategic Partnership, covering various economic, technological, and defense sectors.
He outlined avenues for collaboration, including people-to-people cooperation, addressing climate change and renewable energy concerns, developing high-tech industries, benefiting from Pakistan’s agricultural potential, and working on policy reforms for shared and inclusive growth.
The High Commissioner affirmed Malaysia’s commitment to not recognize Israel until a Two-State solution is achieved in the Middle East, leading to the establishment of an independent State of Palestine.
He highlighted Malaysia’s economic success through sustainable programs and expressed hope for Pakistan to overcome political instability. He urged Pakistan to showcase itself as a safe destination for investment and tourism, pointing to the competitive surgical and sports industry in Sialkot as one of the best in the world.
