Pakistan and Malaysia have signed multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) following high-level talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his Malaysian counterpart Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya. The discussions marked a major step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors, particularly trade, defence, education, and Halal certification.
One of the key highlights of the meeting was Malaysia’s decision to import $200 million worth of Halal meat from Pakistan. Both leaders agreed to deepen collaboration in agriculture, information technology, and vocational training, with a focus on enhancing Pakistan’s exports and technological capabilities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is on his first official visit to Malaysia, described the talks as “very productive” and emphasized Pakistan’s desire to learn from Malaysia’s developmental model. He stated that the two nations could achieve remarkable results through joint ventures and shared expertise. “Pakistan will ensure that all Halal exports meet Malaysia’s strict certification standards. We aim not just to meet the $200 million quota, but to surpass it,” he said.
Shehbaz also presented Prime Minister Anwar with an Urdu translation of his book SCRIPT: For a Better Malaysia, calling it a bridge between the two nations. He praised Anwar’s vision for economic resilience and social harmony, linking it to Pakistan’s own “Madani vision” of sustainable and inclusive development.
The Pakistani leader also lauded Malaysia for translating Allama Iqbal’s seminal works into Malay, calling it a milestone in promoting cultural and intellectual ties. He expressed his gratitude for the “exceptionally warm” welcome and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his remarks, underscored the growing partnership between the two nations in education, defence, agriculture, and digital innovation. He affirmed Malaysia’s support for facilitating Pakistan’s export of Halal products and commended Pakistani professionals, skilled workers, and students for their valuable contributions to Malaysia’s economy.
Anwar further emphasized that both sides recognized the need for regional peace and stability, noting that peace between Pakistan and India remained vital for the region. He also appreciated Pakistan’s consistent stance on the Gaza crisis, highlighting both nations’ call for immediate humanitarian action.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz was accorded an official welcome at the Perdana Putra Complex, where he inspected a guard of honour. The ceremony was attended by senior Malaysian ministers and diplomats from both countries.
The visit follows the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership in 2019. In 2024, trade between Pakistan and Malaysia reached RM8.07 billion (US$1.76 billion), a 25.5% increase from the previous year. Pakistan exports agricultural goods, textiles, and footwear, while importing palm oil, petroleum, and chemical products from Malaysia.
Accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz were Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi. The visit, which concludes Tuesday, is expected to pave the way for greater collaboration in economic growth, technological innovation, and regional cooperation.
