On 31 January 2024, Ambassador Azhar Mazlan was invited by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) to deliver a talk under the 'Distinguished Lecture Series' themed ‘Pakistan-Malaysia Relations in the New Era’.
Accompanied by officers from the High Commission, Ambassador Azhar engaged the audience with a dynamic discussion, exploring potential collaborations across political, economic, and people-to-people dimensions. Ambassador Azhar also highlighted the pressing global issues of climate change and renewable energy, advocating for joint efforts to address these challenges. He underscored the importance of developing high-tech industries and harnessing Pakistan's agricultural potential for mutual benefit.
A key focal point of Ambassador Azhar's remarks was the robust trade relationship between the two nations. The High Commissioner pointed out Pakistan's pivotal role as Malaysia's third-largest trading partner for exports and the second-largest source of imports. Particularly noteworthy was imports of palm oil from Malaysia, accounting for 9% since the Malaysian Free Trade Agreement (FTA) took effect in 2008.
Zooming in on specific sectors, Ambassador Azhar stressed the untapped potential for collaboration in the Halal meat industry. He expressed enthusiasm for the production of Halal meat, chicken, and dairy products, signalling promising economic prospects.
Adding a human touch to the diplomatic narrative, Ambassador Azhar informed the audience that Malaysia is currently home to over 100,000 Pakistani diaspora members as 2023. He envisioned expanded cooperation within the existing Strategic Partnership, spanning economic, technological, and defence sectors.
In the way forward, Ambassador Azhar explained on Malaysia's economic success that was achieved through consistent policies and programme and expressed optimism for Pakistan to navigate through its political challenges. Encouraging Pakistan to position itself as a secure and attractive destination for investment and tourism, Ambassador Azhar called for a proactive showcase of the nation's potential on the global stage. This, he emphasized, would pave the way for shared and inclusive growth, promising a prosperous future for both nations.
