PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad believes that Malaysia and Pakistan share remarkable similarities in the sense that both nations are now led by new governments mandated by the people.
He said that while both countries also inherited similar problems in many areas from their previous administrations, they also shared a similar vision in their desire to eradicate corruption and address economic issues in order to develop their countries further.
“Now is the time for us to move together. I believe in the importance of cooperation that is based on mutual respect; successful and dynamic relations between Malaysia and Pakistan would contribute to our own prosperity and stability.
“I’m happy to see that the new Pakistani government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, is steering Pakistan towards progress and a corruption-free country.
“Historic reforms have been carried out under his leadership that have made Pakistan more open and competitive. Together, we can realise out combined potentials and achieve better lives for our people,” he said during an official luncheon hosted by the prime minister for his Pakistani counterpart at Seri Perdana on Wednesday.
Also present were Dr Mahathir’s wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali; Cabinet ministers, as well as Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Ismail Bakar.
Imran is currently on a two-day official visit to Malaysia. This is his inaugural visit to Malaysia since he took office last August.
Dr Mahathir also said both leaders were able to discuss many areas of bilateral cooperation and take stock of the progress in political and economic matters.
“With our economic cooperation showing positive growth, I believe there is more that could be done for our bilateral trade to grow.
“I would also like acknowledge the opportunities and confidence given by the prime minister to a number of Malaysian companies currently involved in various projects in Pakistan. I hope more Malaysian companies will be given the opportunity to be more involved in Pakistan’s economy.”