President Asif Ali Zardari has called for stronger Pakistan-Malaysia cooperation in law enforcement, counter-terrorism and narcotics control. He also urged closer coordination to tackle human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
Zardari made the remarks during a meeting with Malaysian Home Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. Pakistan’s Interior and Narcotics Control Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi also attended the meeting.
Pakistan-Malaysia Cooperation on Security
The president highlighted the importance of closer cooperation between Pakistani and Malaysian security institutions. He said stronger coordination could help both countries address common security challenges.
The discussions covered law enforcement, counter-terrorism, immigration and legal and judicial matters. Both sides also looked at ways to improve institutional cooperation.
Zardari said Pakistan values its close and fraternal relationship with Malaysia. He pointed to shared faith, cultural links and strong people-to-people ties as the foundation of the relationship.
Zardari Seeks Greater Trade Opportunities
The meeting also covered bilateral trade between Pakistan and Malaysia. Zardari called for better access to the Malaysian market for Pakistani products.
He specifically highlighted products such as rice, potatoes, wheat, poultry and animal feed. Greater market access, he said, could help expand commercial ties between the two countries.
The two sides also discussed measures to strengthen broader economic cooperation.
Pakistan and Malaysia Mark 69 Years of Relations
Saifuddin Nasution informed President Zardari that 2026 marks the 69th year of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Malaysia.
The two countries established diplomatic ties in 1957 following Malaysia’s independence. Over the decades, their relationship has expanded across security, trade, education and other areas.
The Malaysian minister also highlighted growing air connectivity between the two countries. Currently, 14 flights each week connect different Pakistani cities with Malaysia.
Efforts are also underway to increase flight frequencies, which could further strengthen tourism, business and people-to-people links.
Islamabad and Kuala Lumpur Deepen Cooperation
The Malaysian delegation included High Commissioner Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, Royal Malaysia Police Director of Special Branch Ibrahim Darus and Malaysian Prison Department Deputy Commissioner General Rehabilitation Hafidz Othman.
President Zardari expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen institutional ties. He also said closer engagement could deepen the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Malaysia.
Both countries are expected to continue working together on security, trade and other areas of mutual interest.
