KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 22 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Pakistani counterpart Shehbaz Sharif have agreed that regional tensions must be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy to safeguard peace and stability.
Anwar said the shared position was reached during a telephone conversation with Shehbaz, during which they exchanged views on current regional developments and the latest developments in Iran-US relations.
In a Facebook post, Anwar said Shehbaz also enquired about his health during the telephone conversation.
“We also discussed developments in Iran-US relations and stressed the importance of continued engagement to ease tensions. The Strait of Hormuz must also remain open and safe to ensure the smooth flow of international trade,” he said.
The conversation also reinforced Malaysia and Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen trade and economic ties, which have significant potential for expansion, including increasing Pakistani meat exports to Malaysia.
Anwar said every commitment reached must be swiftly translated into tangible outcomes that benefit the people of both countries.
“Malaysia will continue to support Pakistan as a friend and an important partner, God willing,” he said.
The prime minister also expressed his appreciation to Shehbaz for his prayers and for sending flowers and fruit following his recent health condition, adding that he was now recovering.
Anwar had earlier undergone an elective laparoscopic procedure to treat a para-umbilical hernia. — Bernama
