President Zardari, Malaysian minister discuss trade and security

President Asif Ali Zardari met Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, with discussions focusing on

President Asif Ali Zardari met Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, with discussions focusing on strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and Malaysia in security, trade and institutional matters.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi was also present during the meeting.

President Zardari stressed the need to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in the security sector. He welcomed the agreement to expand joint efforts against terrorism, drug trafficking and human trafficking.

The president said Pakistan and Malaysia enjoy close relations based on shared religion, cultural ties and mutual respect. He also appreciated progress in institutional cooperation in areas including internal security, immigration, and legal and judicial affairs.

The two sides also discussed ways to increase bilateral trade and expand economic relations between Pakistan and Malaysia.

President Zardari called for greater market access for Pakistani products in Malaysia. He said there is demand in the Malaysian market for Pakistani rice, potatoes, wheat, poultry products and animal feed. He stressed that both countries should work to further strengthen trade links and facilitate the exchange of goods.

During the meeting, Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail noted that 2026 marks the 69th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Malaysia.

He said 14 weekly flights are currently operating between the two countries, while efforts are underway to increase the number of air connections. Improved connectivity, he noted, could contribute to stronger people-to-people contacts, tourism, business activity and bilateral trade.

The meeting also covered ways to deepen institutional links between the two countries. Both sides expressed their commitment to using the Malaysian minister’s visit to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between relevant institutions.

The discussions reflected a shared interest in expanding Pakistan-Malaysia cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic ties, particularly in security, immigration, trade and institutional coordination.