PUTRAJAYA – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday hailed his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement to import $200 million worth of Halal meat from Pakistan as a “welcome step,” anticipating a significant boost in bilateral engagement within the Halal sector. The announcement followed comprehensive bilateral talks between the two leaders in Putrajaya.
During a joint press conference, PM Shehbaz shared that he had a “most productive exchange of views” with PM Ibrahim, focusing on strengthening their “historic partnership.” Discussions covered a wide array of areas, including trade and investment, climate, defence, education, and tourism, reflecting a strategic intent to deepen ties across multiple fronts.
Economic Diplomacy and Assurance
The core of the economic discussions centred on leveraging Malaysian expertise and Pakistani resources. PM Shehbaz stressed Pakistan’s desire to “join hands” with Malaysia for mutually beneficial projects, especially those allowing both countries’ expertise to converge.
Regarding the Halal meat export, which was highlighted by PM Ibrahim, PM Shehbaz provided a strong assurance to Malaysian importers. He clarified that the quota would be strictly regulated by a market price mechanism and adhere to all required Halal certification by Malaysian customs and food authorities. “We will make all possible efforts to meet all your terms and conditions,” he affirmed, predicting that the $200 million quota would see a “quantum jump” in the future.
PM Ibrahim also noted interest in expanding cooperation in Information Technology (IT) and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), acknowledging Pakistan’s historically strong potential in these fields.
Shared Values and Geopolitical Alignment
Beyond economics, the two leaders addressed regional and global developments, including the volatile situation in the Middle East and South Asia. PM Ibrahim was “extremely appreciative” of Pakistan’s stance on Palestine and Gaza, expressing a joint commitment to achieving peace and supporting the cessation of “insane bombings and killings by the Zionist Israeli regime.”
Both leaders also reflected on the philosophical foundations of their nations, sharing a deep admiration for Allama Muhammad Iqbal, whose message of faith, self-renewal, and the “awakening of the self” continues to inspire generations across the Muslim world.
Concluding his remarks, PM Shehbaz described the warm hospitality as a “family reunion” and expressed that he would return “far more informed… far more impressed… far more comforted,” signalling the success of his state visit. The two leaders later witnessed the exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), formalising new areas of cooperation.
