Global Rice News

Malaysian High Commissioner, Mohammad Azhar Bin Mazlan, has stated that Pakistan and Malaysia have the potential for $12 billion in bilateral trade and need to work together to achieve this. Currently, the trade volume between the two countries stands at $1.8 billion, which is below the potential. The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has been identified as playing a vital role in advancing the trade relationship.

During a meeting with the business community, Bin Mazlan highlighted the opportunities for development in the halal industry in both Malaysia and Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of the private sectors of both countries taking tangible steps to capitalize on these opportunities. Bin Mazlan stated that Malaysia is ready to fully cooperate with Pakistan in becoming a regional hub for the halal industry.

The High Commissioner also noted that there are approximately 5,000 Pakistani students studying in Malaysian universities. He highlighted the Islamic environment available to Pakistani students in Malaysia, particularly for female students who have full religious freedom. Bin Mazlan mentioned that Pakistan was one of the first countries to recognize Malaysia after its independence, highlighting the close diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.

Bin Mazlan further emphasized the strategic partnership between Pakistan and Malaysia, stressing its importance in the development and economic prosperity of both countries. He mentioned that Malaysia always welcomes foreign labor and highlighted the contribution of legally employed Pakistani laborers, who number around 200,000, in the Malaysian economy.

The Malaysian ambassador also spoke about Malaysian companies investing in the telecom sector in Pakistan. He highlighted Pakistan’s potential as a market of 240 million people and stressed the opportunities for trade with ASEAN countries. Bin Mazlan stated that Malaysia can offer Pakistan lucrative trade opportunities within ASEAN, which would help boost Pakistan’s economy.

Senior businessman and former President of FPCCI, Zubair Ahmed Malik, emphasized the historical economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Malaysia. He stressed the need for frequent exchange of think tanks between the two countries to further strengthen their relationship.

Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group, emphasized the importance of granting Pakistan the status of a full dialogue partner with ASEAN. He also proposed the establishment of direct air links between Pakistan and ASEAN states to enhance mutual trade ties. Bakhtawari suggested organizing a Pakistan-ASEAN Trade Conference for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Engr. Azher ul Islam Zafar, Vice President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed optimism for closer collaboration between Pakistan and Malaysia. He mentioned the need to diversify trade products and take steps to enhance Pakistan’s exports to Malaysia, particularly in the areas of rice, fruit, vegetables, textiles, garments, seafood, medical and surgical goods, and other non-traditional products.

The meeting was attended by several other prominent individuals from both countries, including Ch. Maqsood Tabish, Dr. Usman, Malik Naeem Awan, Khalid Ch. Imtiaz Abbasi, Waseem Ch. Sajid Iqbal, and Ch. Nawaz Basra.

Source: [Daily Times](https://dailytimes.com.pk)