Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for further strengthening Pakistan-Malaysia cooperation in law enforcement, counter-terrorism, narcotics control, combating human trafficking, and migrant smuggling. He was speaking with Malaysia's Minister for Home Affairs, Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail, who visited him in Islamabad today.
According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari welcomed the Malaysian Minister and his delegation, emphasizing the importance of Pakistan's close and fraternal relations with Malaysia. These relations are rooted in shared faith, culture, mutual respect, and strong people-to-people ties. He acknowledged the positive progress in strengthening institutional cooperation, particularly in internal security, immigration, and legal and judicial matters.
President Zardari highlighted the need for continued coordination between the relevant institutions of both countries, which would facilitate their citizens and address mutual concerns. Discussions also included matters relating to increasing bilateral trade.
The President emphasized the importance of exploring greater market access in Malaysia for Pakistani products such as rice, potatoes, wheat, poultry, and animal feed, which are in demand there.
The visiting Minister noted that 2026 marks the 69th year of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Malaysia, established in 1957 following Malaysia's independence. He also informed the President about the current 14 flights per week connecting various cities of Pakistan with Malaysia and mentioned efforts to further increase flight frequency.
President Zardari expressed confidence that the visit would contribute to strengthening institutional ties and further deepening the longstanding and multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and Malaysia.
