ISLAMABAD, March 22 (APP): Pakistan and Malaysia have agreed to strengthen their economic relations by promoting trade and investment for mutual benefit of two countries.The understanding came at a meeting between Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Muhammad in Islamabad on Friday.
Later addressing a joint news conference, Prime Minister Imran Khan said Pakistan has always looked upon Malaysian Prime Minister as a Muslim statesman who changed his country.The Prime Minister also admired his Malaysian counterpart for taking strong stance on issues affecting the Muslim world including terrorism.Referring to the rise of Islamophobia in the world, he said it has badly affected the Muslims and expressed the confidence that the Malaysian Prime Minister will also forcefully take a stance on the matter.The prime minister appreciated the stance of Mahathir Muhammad against corruption saying his party has been waging a struggle against corruption over the last twenty two years.Describing his visit as very useful, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Muhammad said both the countries have identified the areas of mutual cooperation which could prove to be beneficial for both the countries.
He said traders of both countries will be facilitated in doing business with each other.Malaysian prime minister said his country has set the target of becoming a developed country by 2025.He regretted that there is not a single Muslim country in the category of developed nations.
He said other Muslim countries should also strive to develop themselves at par with the developed countries.On Islamophobia, Mahathir Muhammad said there is fear, hatred and enmity towards Muslims and this is why Christchurch attack took place.He urged need to find ways to combat Islamophobia.He said Pakistan and Malaysia can also cooperate on this particular issue with the aim to bring improvement in the perception of Muslims and reduce hatred and fear towards Muslims.Earlier, a formal welcome ceremony in honor of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Muhammad was held at the Prime Minister House.
VNS, Islamabad
