It goes without saying that from the contents of the joint affirmation, one can look forward to a concerted effort in the desired direction, and in accordance with the purpose and demands of the unfolding situation not only in our part of the world but on the international scene too.
For as it pointedly observed, the two countries underlined the importance of international co-operation in the fight against terrorism and reaffirmed their countries' commitment to combating the menace and other transnational crimes in a comprehensive manner. Needless to point out, despite the identification of the tremendous scope of purposeful co-operation between the two countries, real progress in the desired direction has left a great deal to be desired, mainly because of the menacing spread of terrorism, as thwarting the needed efforts.
It will thus be noted that, at the strategic and political levels, the two countries agreed to make every effort to further develop their relations and multi-faceted co-operation for the common benefit of the two countries.
This should also explain the decision that each side would be guided by the generally accepted principles of international laws, as well as of traditions of friendly relations between their two countries, on the basis of mutual respect for national sovereignty, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and democratic principles of each country.
Notably, Pakistan and Malaysia reaffirmed their commitment to implement the purpose and principles of the United Nations Charter, saying "Pakistan and Malaysia shall strengthen mechanisms of mutual consultation and co-operation by instituting regular working level consultations between their respective Foreign Ministries."
They also agreed to "increase co-operation in the fields of defence through interactions and exchanges between the relevant ministries". It will also be noted that while Malaysia lauded Pakistan's resolve to further enhance linkages with the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), it also expressed support to latter's efforts to establish full dialogue partnership with the organisation, pointing out that the decision, in this regard, would be made by consensus of the member countries.
Among the salient features of the joint statement, due reference may also be made to the agreement reached on promoting investment and trade, more so, with added emphasis on direct trade. Mention may also be made of the resolve to form a joint study group aimed at establishing Comprehensive Economic Partnership and launch of talks on the Free Trade Agreement in 2005.
Again, as increase in trade holds the key to gainful economic co-operation among given countries, the agreement on establishing Joint Business and Investment Council comprising the private sector of the two countries, should provide enough indication of their common desire to pursue with it, in accordance with right approach.
This, of course, has reference to the evident urge to promote establishment of joint ventures in the public sector projects, more so, with participation of the private sectors of both countries. For, it has been decided that both, Pakistan and Malaysia, would encourage joint ventures and promote closer co-operation between their private sectors. Significant, in this regard, should be the urge of Malaysia, in particular, to seek facilitation of downstream activities of Malaysian palm oil and palm products in Pakistan.
Needless to point out, this urge on Malaysia's part, can be seen as also intimately linked the two countries' understandable bid to promote co-operation in agriculture, agro-based industries, Halal food industry, besides traditional medicines. As for other areas of further intensified economic co-operation, reference may specifically be made to the commitment to encourage Malaysian companies to invest in infrastructure, construction and housing sectors in Pakistan.
It will be noted that this decision can be seen as directly related to each other's understandable urges and aspiration. The same can also be said about the agreement of the long awaited designation of Pakistan as a source country for the export of manpower to Malaysia. For this should prove instrumental in fostering desired co-operation in view of their specific needs and potential. More to it, the two countries will explore, develop and conclude arrangements for mutually beneficial co-operation in the fields of Information Technology and telecommunications.
They agreed to develop and promote activities and programmes to enhance people to people contacts. All in all, the Malaysian Prime Minister's Pakistan visit will be seen as vividly marking the beginning of a series of efforts in the direction of purposeful co-operation between Pakistan and Malaysia.