Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia will undertake his first official visit to Pakistan from October 2 to 4, 2023, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The trip aims to strengthen diplomatic ties through strategic discussions, the signing of agreements, and educational initiatives. Both leaders will also address mutual concerns in regional and international contexts. The visit marks a key engagement since Anwar’s assuming office in November 2022, following the elevation of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2019.
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is set to embark on his inaugural official visit to Pakistan from October 2 to 4, aimed at reinforcing the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. According to a statement issued by Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry, the visit comes at the invitation of the Pakistani Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and will be the first formal engagement between the two leaders since Anwar assumed office in November 2022. During this visit, Prime Minister Anwar will be honored with an official welcoming ceremony and will engage in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will also host a formal luncheon in Anwar’s honor. The discussions are intended to evaluate existing collaborations and explore new initiatives to enhance Malaysia-Pakistan bilateral ties, particularly following the elevation of their relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2019. The leaders are anticipated to address mutual concerns regarding regional and international issues, along with witnessing the signing of two key documents: a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, and a Letter of Cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The agenda also includes the launch of three translated works of celebrated Pakistani poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, rendered from Persian, Urdu, and English into Bahasa Melayu. Furthermore, during his stay, Prime Minister Anwar is scheduled to deliver a lecture at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and will receive an honorary doctorate in philosophy. Additionally, he will have an audience with the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, and is expected to be bestowed with the highest civilian honor of Pakistan, the Nishan-e-Pakistan. Accompanying the Prime Minister will be key governmental figures including Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, among others. In terms of economic relations, total trade between Malaysia and Pakistan reached RM7.84 billion (approximately USD 1.4 billion), reflecting a decline of 18 percent compared to RM7.89 billion (USD 1.78 billion) in 2022, with trade comprising goods such as palm oil, textiles, and electronics. It is pertinent to note that as of June 2024, Malaysia hosts 4,666 Pakistani students in higher education institutions.
The upcoming official visit of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Pakistan is significant as it marks a crucial step toward strengthening bilateral relations between Malaysia and Pakistan. The relationship was formalized through the designation of a Strategic Partnership in 2019, highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation in various fields, including trade, education, and cultural exchange. This visit is an opportunity to not only evaluate past collaborations but to also set the groundwork for future strategic initiatives that may enhance trade and investment ties as well as cultural understanding between the countries. Additionally, with a considerable number of Pakistani students studying in Malaysia, the educational link represents another facet of the bilateral relationship that is worthy of attention during this diplomatic encounter.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Pakistan represents a pivotal moment for bilateral relations, as it seeks to renew commitments and explore new avenues for cooperation. With strategic discussions planned, significant document signings, and educational initiatives highlighted, this visit could serve as a cornerstone for the future of Malaysia-Pakistan engagements. The ongoing economic ties, despite recent declines, remain a point of focus that both nations aim to enhance through collaborative efforts in trade and investments.
Original Source: bernama.com
