Pakistan, Malaysia agree on joint working group, security cooperation

On August 23rd, 2026, Pakistan and Malaysia reached an agreement to establish a joint working group between their interior ministries. The focus of this cooperation will be on counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics, cybercrime, and the prevention of illegal immigration. This decision came after talks between Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Malaysia's Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

During these discussions, both nations also talked about strengthening cooperation in the areas of coast guards, training programs, and the collaboration between the National Police Academy of Pakistan and the Royal Malaysia Police College. They agreed to bolster tourism between their countries and make visa procedures easier.

Minister Naqvi expressed optimism, suggesting that the Malaysian minister's visit marks a significant step in elevating bilateral relations. He proposed that a higher work quota for Pakistanis would allow more citizens to visit Malaysia legally. Additionally, a delegation from Pakistan will soon travel to Malaysia to further improve bilateral ties.

President Asif Ali Zardari, speaking separately with Minister Ismail, called for a strengthening of the strategic alliance between Pakistan and Malaysia. Zardari underscored the importance of unified efforts in combating transnational networks engaged in human trafficking and migrant smuggling, which he sees as a crucial step towards regional security stabilization.

He also appreciated the progress made in enhancing institutional cooperation, especially in areas such as internal security, immigration, and legal and judicial matters.