The 1970s saw more exchanges between #Malaysia & #Iran but it was also a period of deep uncertainty for the Shah: with domestic & international opposition rising. Both were on different sides of the #ColdWar - Iran as part of the #NixonDoctrine / Malaysia as #ZOPFAN ~RAR

Still #Iran & #Malaysia continued to build their relationship throughout the 1970s. Notably, the Agong Sultan Abdul Halian & the Permaisuri were guests at the Shah’s infamous 1971 Persepolis gathering to celebrate 2500 years of the Iranian monarchy ~RAR

The party was a spectacular event - meant to display the #Shah at the height of power & influence over other world leaders. In reality, it was a display of opulence & delusion & contributed to 1979. In this sense, he was unlike the Malaysian #Agong who had little power ~RAR

Despite troubles facing his reign, the #Shah maintained an interest in #Malaysia. Shabanou #FarahDiba made an independent visit to Malaysia, calling on DPM #TunRazak, followed by an official visit by Prince Golamreza & his wife in 1973 who called on now PM #TunRazak ~RAR

Diplomatically, relations between both countries were strengthened. In 1972, #Malaysia ‘s ambassador to #Iran Datuk Ahmad Zainab Abidin was awarded the Order of Homayun First Class whole Iranian ambassador Abdul Hussein Hamzavi was a regular at official events ~RAR

His replacements Mohsen Esfandiari & Farajollah Borhani enjoyed close relations with the Malaysian government, enjoying frequent audiences with higher members of the cabinet and royal family. Right up to 1978, relations remained strong, supplemented by trade exchanges ~RAR

In sum, relations continued to develop throughout the 1970s, despite growing opposition to the #Shah - #Malaysia maintained the relationship. Tomorrow we will look at the effects of 1979 & the relationship on the relationship. Thank you for tuning in ~RAR #MalaysiaIran