On 15 January 2025, Ambassador Dato' Azhar Mazlan, accompanied by Mr. Muhammad Zulasri bin Rosdi, First Secretary of the High Commission, visited the city of Gujranwala in the Punjab Province to inaugurate the ASEAN Trade Facilitation Desk at the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). The ceremony was attended by the Ambassadors and High Commissioners of ASEAN Missions in Islamabad, including representatives from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Upon their arrival, Rana Muhammad Siddique Khan, President of GCCI, along with Senior Vice President Ahmad Naveed, Vice President Chaudhry Muhammad Yusuf, Senior Members, and Executive Members, warmly welcomed the Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and other ASEAN representatives.

In his speech, Rana Muhammad Siddique Khan highlighted that the establishment of the ASEAN Trade Facilitation Desk would serve as a mutual trade link between ASEAN countries and Pakistan, particularly Gujranwala. He emphasized the importance of promoting Gujranwala’s products in ASEAN markets and enhancing the relationship between the diverse cultures of Pakistan and ASEAN nations.

On this occasion, Ambassador Dato' Azhar praised the steps taken by GCCI and stated that Gujranwala has demonstrated immense potential as a key hub for trade in Pakistan. He encouraged the region to consider ASEAN as a major trading partner and leverage Malaysia as a gateway to the ASEAN market, which represents over 670 million people. As Chairman of ASEAN in 2025, Malaysia welcomed new trade partners and emphasized the need to strengthen economic cooperation within the region.

At the end of the ceremony, a documentary showcasing the economic and industrial profile of Gujranwala was presented to the attendees. The documentary highlighted the key products and industries of the region. Rana Muhammad Siddique Khan also invited the ASEAN diplomats to participate in the upcoming Industrial Exhibition to be held in Islamabad from 13 to 15 April 2025, which he described as a new opportunity for trade and investment in Gujranwala.