KUALA LUMPUR (DNA) – Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Malaysian counterpart Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad held one-on-one meeting and delegation level talks in Kuala Lumpur.

Both the countries discussed entire gamut of bilateral relations, matters of mutual interest, trade cooperation, investment, privatization and ways and means to further bolster their cooperation in diverse fields.

Later, a joint news conference was held during which PM Khan said Pakistan wants to learn from Malaysia’s experience of turning around economy, trade, and development in other sectors.

He said Pakistan has huge untapped tourism resources, which we want to develop this sector on the pattern Malaysia has developed it.

“Malaysia has progressed speedily in the leadership of Mahathir Mohamad. The nations voted both the countries against corruption,” asserted Khan.

Speaking on the occasion, Mahathir Mohamad said Malaysia and Pakistan face similar challenges and it has been decided to cooperate with one another.

He emphasized the need to continue mutual cooperation to benefit from the experiences of one another. Malaysian PM said it was also decided to have a dialogue partnership at the ASEAN group; besides, enhancing mutual cooperation in defence sector.

Imran Khan also invited Dr Mahathir Mohamad to visit Pakistan as chief guest on the occasion of Pakistan Day falling on 23rd March next year.

Following the news conference, a joint statement was issued related to the meeting of the prime ministers. According to the statement, both leaders witnessed the signing of the Partial Visa Abolishment Agreement (PVAA) which will reinforce the positive momentum in the bilateral relationship by broadening contact at the officials’ level between the two countries.

Prime Minister Imran Khan briefed Prime Minister Tun Mahathir on the grave human rights situation in Kashmir and in this regard referred to the Reports of UNOHCHR, Amnesty International, International People’s Tribunal and All Parties Parliamentary Kashmir Group, UK. He also discussed the role of OIC Contact Group on Kashmir to highlight the issue.

As two peace-loving Islamic nations, the two leaders agreed to increase their collaborative efforts to uphold the true values of Islam in international fora while strengthening the solidarity of the Muslim Ummah. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate more closely on issues affecting the Muslim world including taking joint efforts in underscoring Muslim sensitivities in attacking Muslim holy personalities and religious belief.

Both stressed that terrorism cannot be associated with any religion or belief. Views were Malaysian side took note of the massive counter-terrorism efforts that Pakistan has successfully undertaken in an effort to eliminate terrorism.

Earlier, on his arrival at the Malaysian prime minister office, Imran Khan was received by Mahathir Mohamad. On the occasion, the anthems of both the countries were played and a  guard of honor was presented to PM Khan.

PM Khan along with his delegation arrived in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Tuesday for a two-day official visit .