Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday reaffirmed his country’s commitment to fully cooperate with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and to further deepen bilateral relations in trade, diplomacy, and regional stability.
Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar Ibrahim said peace between Pakistan and India was essential for stability in South Asia and emphasized Malaysia’s readiness to assist Pakistan in efforts to counter terrorism. “Our relations with Pakistan have strengthened over time, and we stand ready to offer every possible cooperation to overcome the menace of terrorism,” he stated.
The Malaysian premier lauded the historical friendship between the two Muslim nations, describing it as rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations for peace and progress.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is on a two-day official visit to Malaysia, thanked the Malaysian government and people for their warm hospitality and described Malaysia as his “second home.” He said Pakistan and Malaysia enjoyed excellent relations that would be further consolidated through enhanced economic cooperation and joint ventures.
Shehbaz Sharif praised Anwar Ibrahim’s literary work, referring to his book The Script, and said it would serve as “a bridge between Islamabad and Kuala Lumpur.” He expressed confidence that his visit would inject new momentum into bilateral cooperation.
The prime minister also welcomed Malaysia’s decision to import halal meat worth $200 million from Pakistan, describing it as a landmark step in expanding trade relations. “We will continue to strengthen halal meat exports over time and explore new opportunities for collaboration in other sectors,” he added.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that Pakistan was eager to benefit from Anwar Ibrahim’s experience and vision through joint initiatives, calling the Malaysian leader “a distinguished statesman whose leadership and insight have left a lasting impression on Pakistan-Malaysia relations.”
Earlier, upon arrival at the Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif was accorded a ceremonial welcome. The two prime ministers reviewed the guard of honour presented by the Malaysian armed forces, followed by the playing of both national anthems.
The visit is expected to bolster Pakistan-Malaysia cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, counterterrorism, and people-to-people linkages.
