Latest news with #bilateralcooperation
Free Malaysia Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Free Malaysia Today
Japan showing stronger interest in JS-SEZ, says Anwar
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his Japanese counterpart had expressed his intent to expand private sector investment in Malaysia in a phone call last month. ISKANDAR PUTERI : Japan has expressed a growing interest in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), with the country looking to deepen bilateral economic cooperation with Malaysia. In his closing remarks at the Nikkei Forum Medini, Johor 2025, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba, had expressed his intent to expand private sector investment in Malaysia in a phone call last month. 'When I spoke with prime minister Ishiba last month, he not only mentioned Sarawak's green hydrogen efforts but also specifically referred to Johor and the JS-SEZ. 'The fact that Japan's prime minister referred to Johor by name shows the strategic importance of this region in our bilateral ties,' he said at the forum co-organised by Iskandar Investment Bhd. Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata said Japan is eager to support Johor's growth and regional significance, particularly through advanced technological solutions and infrastructure collaboration. He highlighted traffic congestion as a major obstacle to Johor's development, citing its impact on the economy, environment, and road safety. 'Japan is eager to collaborate with Johor by offering cutting-edge solutions, including smart transportation systems and quality infrastructure development. 'By employing Japan's artificial intelligence-driven traffic control systems and digitally optimised public transportation networks, we aim to assist Johor in overcoming serious traffic congestion and becoming a model city for transportation solutions, not only in Malaysia but also in Asean and beyond,' he said. Shikata also said Johor's rise as a regional hub for data centres presents environmental challenges due to high energy demands for cooling. 'In this regard, Japan's liquefied natural gas cooling technology would offer an environmentally friendly and efficient cooling solution. 'By adopting this technology, the data centres in Johor could significantly improve energy efficiency while reducing their environmental impact as well as improving operational efficiency.' On education, Shikata proposed an evolution of Malaysia's 'Look East Policy' to a more reciprocal 'Look at Each Other' approach to foster deeper academic and cultural exchange. He urged government agencies, universities and industry players in both countries to support the creation of joint academic programmes between institutions in Johor and Japan, particularly in sectors such as semiconductors, biotechnology and sustainable energy. Separately, Johor menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the state is ready to serve as a committed and capable partner in strengthening Japan-Malaysia collaboration. He added that Johor's hosting of the forum marked a milestone in its growing international profile. 'The forum not only elevates Johor's name on the global stage but also proves that the state is now emerging as a new key player in the geo-economic landscape of the region,' said Onn Hafiz.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE, Pakistan launch strategic partnership to modernise government operations
The governments of the UAE and Pakistan have launched a strategic partnership aimed at modernising government operations, marking a new milestone in bilateral cooperation between the two nations. Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, affirmed his country's commitment to strengthening its long-standing friendship with the UAE and expanding cooperation across sectors. He emphasised Pakistan's intention to benefit from the UAE's pioneering government practices, which have positioned it among the world's most advanced nations in administrative modernisation. Speaking during a meeting with a UAE government delegation, Prime Minister Sharif noted Pakistan's recent reforms, such as advancing digital governance, paperless economic systems, and implementing identity-less customs protocols. He highlighted Pakistan's eagerness to adopt successful UAE models to promote data-driven decision-making and good governance. The UAE delegation included Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, and Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan. Sharif recalled his recent visit to Abu Dhabi and his meeting with President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, describing the meeting as 'highly fruitful' and praising the UAE's ongoing developmental support and strategic initiatives in Pakistan. During the visit, Prime Minister Sharif witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the UAE–Pakistan strategic partnership for government modernisation. The MoU was signed by Abdulla Lootah and Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives of Pakistan, in the presence of senior officials including Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan; Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for Commerce of Pakistan, and Ambassador Al Zaabi. Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, described the partnership as a continuation of the strong bilateral ties established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. "Underscoring the commitment of the wise leadership to build upon these strong bilateral relations in a manner that ensures the sustainability of constructive cooperation aimed at promoting prosperity and mutual benefit for the peoples of both friendly nations," he added. Mohammad Al Gergawi stated that under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE continues to advance cooperation and strengthen its fruitful and positive partnership with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. He also emphasised the country's commitment to broadening the scope of collaboration across various fields, in a manner that supports the shared vision and aspirations of both friendly nations. Al Gergawi emphasised that this partnership will enhance bilateral cooperation through the sharing of best practices in governance, public administration, and institutional innovation. The strategic partnership covers a wide range of fields including: Good Governance, Development Planning, Public Sector Reform, Human Capital Development, Urban Planning, and Science and Technology. Through this partnership, the two countries aim to foster mutual learning, institutional capacity-building, and implementation of modern, agile government systems. Lootah remarked that the partnership reflects the shared strategic vision of the UAE and Pakistan to advance bilateral cooperation, especially in public sector excellence. In a related context, Muhammad Ishaq Dar met with the delegation from the UAE Government. The delegation also held a separate meeting with Ahsan Iqbal in the presence of Bilal Azhar Kayani, Minister of State for Finance. Both meetings focused on exploring the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and exchanging views on strengthening cooperation in governance, institutional development, and public sector innovation.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Politics
- Zawya
DGR and Kuwaiti Consulate discuss cultural, educational and diplomatic ties
Sharjah: Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, received His Excellency Khaled AlZaabi, Consul General of Kuwait in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, at the department's headquarters. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring opportunities for deeper engagement between the two sides. Joining the meeting were Khaled Khalil Al Farsi, Diplomatic Attaché at the Kuwaiti Consulate, and Sheikh Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of DGR. Sheikh Fahim welcomed the Consul General, underlining the significance of the visit as a reflection of the strong fraternal ties between Sharjah and Kuwait. He emphasised that the meeting provided a valuable platform for advancing coordination and collaboration in areas of mutual interest. The discussion also covered support for Kuwaiti students enrolled at universities in Sharjah. The Consul General affirmed his commitment to ensuring the well-being and comfort of students and their families during their stay or visits to the emirate. He praised the comprehensive educational environment in Sharjah and emphasised the need for continued collaboration to streamline related services, including access to healthcare and insurance. Concluding the visit, Sheikh Fahim announced plans for an official delegation from the Emirate of Sharjah to visit the State of Kuwait later this year, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral ties and explore new prospects for cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Khaleej Times
12-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Pakistan PM in UAE: President Sheikh Mohamed, Sharif discuss bilateral cooperation
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, where the two leaders held talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing key regional and international developments. The meeting, held at Qasr Al Shati, also included the exchange of Eid Al Adha greetings, with both leaders offering prayers for continued prosperity in their countries and peace across the Muslim world and beyond. Discussions centered on enhancing collaboration in economic, investment, and development sectors, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening strategic ties. They also exchanged views on current regional challenges and emphasised the importance of supporting global efforts to promote peace and stability. Prime Minister Sharif praised the UAE's diplomatic leadership in advancing dialogue and conflict resolution and expressed appreciation for the UAE's continued support for Pakistan's development initiatives. Senior officials from both nations attended the meeting, which underscored the growing partnership between the UAE and Pakistan. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Sharif was welcomed at Al Bateen Airport by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser.
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE President, Pakistani Prime Minister discuss bilateral cooperation, regional developments
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan today received His Excellency Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who is on a working visit to the UAE. During the meeting, which took place at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, His Highness and the Pakistani Prime Minister exchanged Eid Al-Adha greetings, offering prayers for continued prosperity for both nations and peace and stability across the Muslim world and beyond. The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on the economic, investment and development sectors. They reaffirmed their commitment to deepening constructive ties and broadening their partnership in pursuit of shared interests and national development goals that aim to deliver greater prosperity for both peoples. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Sharif also reviewed a range of regional and international issues of mutual concern and exchanged views on recent developments. They emphasised the importance of supporting international efforts to promote stability and strengthen peace both regionally and globally. The Pakistani Prime Minister commended the efforts of His Highness in advancing peace, security and stability at both regional and global levels. He highlighted the key role played by UAE diplomacy in promoting dialogue and finding common ground for diplomatic solutions to conflicts and crises around the world. He also expressed his appreciation for the UAE's ongoing support to Pakistan and its impactful development initiatives in the country. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President; Ali bin Hammad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for National Security; Mohamed bin Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, and Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the President's Office for Strategic Affairs and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office. The meeting was also attended by the accompanying delegation of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, which included a number of ministers and senior officials. Earlier today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Abu Dhabi, where he was received at Al Bateen Airport by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, along with a number of senior officials.
