KARACHI, OCT 16 (DNA): In connection with the celebrations of Malaysia’s 68th National Day and 62nd Malaysia Day, His Excellency Dato’ Mohamad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, undertook an official visit to Karachi where he delivered a keynote address at an event organized by the English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP).
The event, arranged by the Consulate General of Malaysia in Karachi, brought together prominent members of Pakistan’s civil society including industrialists, philanthropists, academics, and thought leaders. Established in 1961 and affiliated with the London-based English-Speaking Union, ESUP has long served as a distinguished platform for intellectual and cultural exchange.
In his address, the High Commissioner highlighted the longstanding and fraternal relations between Malaysia and Pakistan, tracing them back to 1957, when Pakistan was among the first nations to recognize Malaysia’s independence. He also fondly recalled the role of Justice Abdul Hamid of Pakistan, who contributed to the drafting of Malaysia’s Constitution — a gesture that continues to symbolize the deep historical and intellectual linkages between the two nations.
His Excellency emphasized that Malaysia–Pakistan relations are rooted not merely in diplomacy or trade, but in shared faith, cultural heritage, and mutual respect. “Our friendship is built upon common Islamic values, parallel journeys of nation-building, and a commitment to progress and development,” he remarked.
He noted that these enduring bonds laid the groundwork for the Malaysia–Pakistan Strategic Partnership, established on March 22, 2019, which now guides bilateral cooperation in a structured and forward-looking manner.
Looking to the future, Dato’ Mohamad Azhar Mazlan presented a comprehensive vision for expanding cooperation under the Strategic Partnership framework. He stressed the importance of enhancing people-to-people ties, promoting bilateral trade and investment, and deepening collaboration in education and technology.
The High Commissioner underlined Malaysia’s readiness to work closely with Pakistan in these areas, noting that such initiatives would not only strengthen economic and political cooperation but also nurture lasting cultural and intellectual linkages between the peoples of both nations.
The address was warmly received by the audience, who appreciated Malaysia’s proactive outreach and reaffirmation of friendship with Pakistan. The event concluded with an engaging discussion session, where participants exchanged views on enhancing Malaysia–Pakistan collaboration in trade, education, and cultural diplomacy.
The High Commissioner’s visit to Karachi, and his engagement with ESUP, were seen as a reflection of Malaysia’s continued commitment to deepening ties with Pakistan at multiple levels — from government and business to academia and civil society.