LAHORE: A Malaysian airline is going to start its operations in Pakistan from March, Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan Hasrul Sani Mujtabar disclosed on Monday, as part of increased people-to-people and business-to-business contacts between two countries.

During his visit to the Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT), the ambassador encouraged the Pakistani business community to participate in a conference in Pangkor Island in September and in the Malaysian International Halal Expo 2016, which he said was expected to bring together businesses from across the globe.

Mr Mujtabar said he would also meet Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif today and discuss ways to realise the full trade potential.

He said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would open up various opportunities and Malaysia wanted to be a part of this new era of economic development in Pakistan.

“Apart from China and Turkey, Pakistan should also focus on the potential of Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations),” he said.

The Malaysian ambassador said media could play a pivotal role in changing the perception and bringing closer the business community of both countries.

Speaking on the occasion, PBIT Chairman Abdul Basit said CPEC would not only benefit Pakistan and China, but also unleash the countless opportunities for other countries as well.

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2016