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ISLAMABAD : Staff Reporter – The High Commissioner of Malaysia\u00a0\u00a0Dato\u2019 Mohammad Azhar Mazlan has reaffirmed his country\u2019s strong commitment to deepening economic and business relations with Pakistan, emphasizing that while political ties remain robust, there is significant room to expand and rebalance bilateral trade.<\/p>\n
Addressing the business community at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) here on Thursday, the High Commissioner highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two nations, recalling that Pakistan was among the earliest countries to recognize Malaysia\u2019s independence in 1957 and supported its constitutional development. He also acknowledged the historic role of Pakistanis who stood with Malaysia during pre-independence challenges, describing the relationship as one rooted in brotherhood and mutual respect.<\/p>\n
Referring to the visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Malaysia last year, he noted that seven Memorandums of Understanding were signed, including collaboration in the halal sector. Malaysia committed to importing up to USD 200 million worth of halal meat annually from Pakistan, with approximately USD 100 million already imported. Malaysia is also sourcing agro-products such as potatoes, onions and basmati rice from Pakistan, where Pakistan ranks as the second-largest rice supplier to Malaysia.<\/p>\n
He observed that current bilateral trade, valued at approximately USD 1.6\u20131.8 billion, remains below potential and is tilted in Malaysia\u2019s favor. As a net food importer serving a population of 34 million, Malaysia sees strong potential to increase imports of Pakistani poultry, dairy products, halal meat and other agricultural commodities to help rebalance trade.<\/p>\n