Strengthening Bilateral Ties between Iran and Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 (Bernama) — Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Malaysia, expanding economic collaboration, and deepening engagement with ASEAN.
Long-Standing and Cordial Relations
Iranian Ambassador to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi, highlighted the long-standing and cordial ties between the two nations, emphasizing their shared cultural, religious, and economic interests.
"As a Muslim country, Malaysia has a special place in Iran’s foreign policy," he said in his speech during the reception of the 46th anniversary victory of the Islamic Revolution of Iran here Friday.
The relations between the two friendly and brotherly countries of Iran and Malaysia have been close, cordial, and effective since the beginning of their diplomatic relations, he added.
Economic Collaboration
Valiollah said Iran and Malaysia have seen positive developments in trade and economic exchanges, with increased participation in each other’s exhibitions and growing cooperation in international forums such as BRICS, the D-8, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
"Both Malaysia and Iran have a lot of capacity in various sectors such as agriculture, industries, trades, education, technology, and tourism, which strengthens the ground for the expansion of bilateral cooperation," he said.
Here, I would like to emphasize once again the determination of the Islamic Republic of Iran to develop its relations with Malaysia more than ever before, he added.
ASEAN Chairmanship and Regional Affairs
The ambassador expressed Iran’s readiness to support Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, welcoming the recent Iran-ASEAN Cooperation Conference in Tehran, which was co-organized with the Malaysian embassy to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration.
On regional affairs, he stressed that Iran and Malaysia share common positions, particularly in supporting the Palestinian cause.
"Iran and Malaysia are among the top countries that have provided significant assistance to the people of Gaza and Palestine during the recent war," he said.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange
Despite the lack of direct flights, Valiollah said tourist exchanges between Iran and Malaysia remain strong.
He expressed optimism that the re-establishment of direct flights between Tehran and Kuala Lumpur would significantly increase tourism flows in the near future.
He also pointed out that cultural and religious similarities have brought Iran and Malaysia closer beyond economic ties.
"The Iranian Film Festival will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru from Feb 20 to 23. I invite all guests to experience Iranian cinema and culture," he said.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Iran and Malaysia have a long history of friendly and cordial relations, with a strong foundation for economic collaboration and cultural exchange. The re-establishment of direct flights and increased cooperation in international forums are expected to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main areas of cooperation between Iran and Malaysia?
A: The main areas of cooperation between Iran and Malaysia include trade, economic exchanges, agriculture, industries, trades, education, technology, and tourism.
Q: What is the current state of tourist exchanges between Iran and Malaysia?
A: Despite the lack of direct flights, tourist exchanges between Iran and Malaysia remain strong, with many Malaysians visiting Iran and vice versa.
Q: What are the plans for increasing tourism flows between Iran and Malaysia?
A: The re-establishment of direct flights between Tehran and Kuala Lumpur is expected to significantly increase tourism flows in the near future.
Q: What are the cultural and religious similarities between Iran and Malaysia?
A: Both Iran and Malaysia are Muslim-majority countries, with a shared cultural and religious heritage that has brought the two nations closer together beyond economic ties.