Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will facilitate the export of agricultural and livestock products from Pakistan, including beef and other types of meat, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation, announced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. This initiative was highlighted at a press conference during Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated that Malaysia has increased the import of rice from Pakistan. He expressed interest in importing beef and meat, emphasizing that Malaysia would facilitate this process. Anwar assured that, with competitive pricing from Pakistan, Malaysia would support meat exports worth up to US$200 million.
Anwar noted the longstanding friendly relations between Malaysia and Pakistan, which have been maintained since Malaysia’s independence in 1957. He highlighted the historical ties and cooperation in cultural, educational, research, and defense sectors, and emphasized the need to further enhance collaboration in areas such as defense, agriculture, and renewable energy amid geopolitical uncertainties.
Anwar also mentioned Shehbaz’s interest in enhancing cooperation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), information and communications technology (ICT), innovation, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), digital, electrical and electronics, and semiconductors. Anwar acknowledged Pakistan’s initial advancements in these fields and welcomed future collaboration.
Shehbaz’s visit, which began on October 5, marked his first official visit to Malaysia since assuming office on March 4, 2024. According to a joint statement, both leaders recognized the potential in trade and investment, expressing satisfaction with efforts to enhance these sectors. They committed to promoting balanced economic ties through market access, business facilitation, and the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA).
Malaysia also expressed its intention to expand palm oil exports to Pakistan, addressing the demand in Pakistan’s food processing and manufacturing sectors. Both leaders agreed on the importance of a stable supply chain and responsible environmental practices.
Anwar and Shehbaz acknowledged the global demand for halal products, agreeing to strengthen cooperation and mutual recognition of halal certification. They also committed to exploring sustainable agricultural practices through joint research and innovation.