Historic Values, Islamic Commonalities Further Enhance Iran-Malaysia Ties

By Samantha Tan KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 (Bernama) -- Historical, cultural and Islamic commonalities, have further enhanced relations between Iran and Malaysia, after the victory of Iran's Islamic Revolution, says its Ambassador to Malaysia, Marzieh Afkham (right). Exchanges of ambassadors and high level delegations as well as increase in trade were some of the examples of stronger diplomatic ties between the two countries, she said at a reception held here Tuesday night to celebrate the 38th Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution In fact, she said that the recent era of diplomatic ties between Iran and Malaysia covering the last 50 years, enjoyed a longer historical background, which could be traced in Malay history, culture and language resulting from trade relations with the Malacca Empire conducted by Iranian tradesmen and merchants during the 14th century. The envoy also recalled Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's visit to Malaysia in October last year together with high ranking delegation, which she said illustrated a new chapter in expanding bilateral relations. "I hope the relations will reach the desirable levels in political, economic and cultural areas as it is decided by both countries' top officials," Afkham said. At the reception attended by some 400 guests, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Nancy Shukri (left) represented the Malaysian government. The 38th anniversary of Islamic Revolution, which saw the fall of the Pahlavi dynasty under Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, who was supported by the US, had established a new political system based on Islamic values and democracy. Afkham said that since the emergence 38 years ago, the revolution has experienced a lot of ups and downs, and relying on the Islamic leadership and people's unity, has trodden the path to independence, freedom and development. She said that despite the eight-year war waged by Saddam Hussein, the then Iraqi President, as well as economic sanctions by the US and the west, the Islamic Revolution has been able to prepare the ground for economic growth and development in all fields. This was done based on the principle of domestice popular support, wise leadership, suitable economies and defensive planning as well as the principle of mutual respect and dialogue in foreign relations, the envoy said. She said that the continuation of the same approach has been sought more vigorously and enthusiastically throughout President Rouhani's term of presidency within the framework of the principle of dialogue, constructive engagement and mutual respect with global community. (photoBERNAMA) --BERNAMA