ISLAMABAD: Acting President Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has stressed the need of further strengthening the bilateral relations with Malaysia for mutual benefit of the two brotherly countries.
He said that Pakistan and Malaysia enjoyed cordial cooperation at all international fora, which needed to be consolidated further.
These views were expressed by the Acting President during his meeting with the Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob, who along with his delegation called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. The meeting was also attended by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Speaking on the occasion, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani urged the need to further explore avenues of cooperation in maritime sectors for the mutual benefit of the two brotherly countries.
He expressed the hope that training and exchange programmes between the two navies would further cement naval cooperation between Pakistan and Malaysia.
The Acting President expressed satisfaction over the regular conduct of bilateral naval exercises and training collaboration between Pakistan and Malaysia.
He appreciated the Royal Malaysian Navy for regular participation in AMAN exercises and emphasized the need for continuity of the same in future.
He stated that Pakistan was looking forward to the continued support of Malaysia for Pakistan’s bid to become the Full Dialogue Partner of ASEAN.
Earlier, the Acting President conferred the award of Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) upon Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob during a special investiture ceremony.
Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob is a close friend of Pakistan and has played a prominent role in promoting cooperation between the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Pakistan Navy. The award was conferred upon him in recognition of his professional achievements and endeavours for strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the two navies.
Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani congratulated the Malaysian Naval Chief on receiving the award of Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) and appreciated his contributions towards increasing naval cooperation between the two countries.
Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman bin Ayob thanked the Acting President for conferring upon him the award of Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military).
