Kuala lumpur: Close cooperation between Malaysia and Pakistan will not only expand economic opportunities, but also strengthen the unity of the Islamic world through trade, investment, and a sustainable halal industry, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. The MADANI Government spokesman highlighted that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his counterpart Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have reasserted the strong bond of friendship and shared aspirations for more dynamic and resilient cooperation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the leaders of the two countries held a bilateral meeting and exchanged views on regional and international issues. Both sides expressed satisfaction with efforts to strengthen bilateral trade and investment, including the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA). Fahmi mentioned Malaysia's intention to boost palm oil exports to Pakistan to meet the demands of its food processing and manufacturing sectors.

Additionally, both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in the halal industry, focusing on mutual recognition of halal certification, strengthening the halal food supply chain, and sharing best practices. Fahmi expressed optimism that Malaysia and Pakistan will continue to fortify diplomatic and economic relations.

Shehbaz arrived in Malaysia for a three-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar. The special plane carrying Shehbaz and his delegation landed at the Bunga Complex Raya, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), where they were welcomed by Fahmi. Malaysia and Pakistan, who established diplomatic relations in 1957, elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership level in March 2019.