PM Shehbaz Sharif Inspects Guard of Honour in Malaysia

PUTRAJAYA, OCT 6 (DNA): Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif was accorded a warm ceremonial welcome at the Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office, Perdana Putra, during his official visit to Malaysia on Monday. The visit marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two Muslim-majority nations.

Upon arrival at the grand forecourt of Perdana Putra in Putrajaya, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was received by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The ceremony included the playing of national anthems and a 21-gun salute, followed by Prime Minister Sharif inspecting a Guard of Honour presented by the Malaysian Armed Forces.

This is Prime Minister Sharif’s first official visit to Malaysia since assuming office in 2024. His visit underscores Pakistan’s commitment to deepening diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation with Malaysia — a key partner in the ASEAN region.

Following the ceremonial reception, both leaders proceeded to hold a high-level meeting to discuss mutual areas of interest, including trade, investment, education, and technology exchange. Regional and global issues, including developments in South Asia, the Asia-Pacific region, and the Muslim world, were also on the agenda.

The two leaders are expected to sign several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and encouraging people-to-people exchanges. Special focus is being placed on strengthening cooperation in halal food exports, palm oil trade, and digital economy initiatives.

Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reiterated Pakistan’s strong desire to build a comprehensive partnership with Malaysia based on shared values and mutual respect.

The visit is anticipated to pave the way for greater collaboration and renewed diplomatic momentum between Islamabad and Putrajaya in the years ahead.