India and Malaysia on Sunday announced a number of initiatives to boost cooperation in defense and security, semiconductors and trade following wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, PTI reported.
After the meeting, Modi said the two countries shared a “special relationship” and reaffirmed his commitment to expand ties across a range of sectors.
The prime minister also reiterated India’s stand on counter-terrorism, saying, “Our message on terrorism is clear, no double standard, no compromise.”
Read also | PM Modi arrives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to thunderous welcome – Watch
Modi arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to a grand red carpet reception and was received at the airport by Ibrahim. Ahead of the talks, Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Putra this morning.
“India and Malaysia share a special relationship. We are maritime neighbours. For centuries, our people have a deep and loving bond,” Modi said.
“Today, Malaysia is the second largest country in the world with a population of Indian origin. Our civilization, shared cultural heritage and democratic values unite us,” he said.
Modi said the two sides would strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and maritime security.
We will also make defense cooperation more comprehensive, he said.
“Together with artificial intelligence and digital technologies, we will expand partnerships in semiconductors, health and food safety,” he said.
The Prime Minister also touched on India’s approach to the Indo-Pacific.
“The Indo-Pacific region is emerging as the growth engine of the world,” he said.
Read also | PM Modi Receives Guard of Honour, Ceremonial Welcome in Malaysia – Watch Videos
The Prime Minister said that India is committed to development, peace and stability in the entire Indo-Pacific region together with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).
Malaysian Prime Minister Ibrahim said India and Malaysia continue to expand cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity and defence.
According to him, India has seen a spectacular increase in world trade and economy.
Modi arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to a grand red carpet reception, with Ibrahim receiving him at the airport, signaling a new impetus in bilateral relations.
Ahead of the talks, Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Putra this morning.
Our message on terrorism is clear; no double standard, no compromise.
“India shares close ties with Malaysia rooted in civilizational, historical and people-to-people ties,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said.
(With input from agencies)
Key things
- India is committed to strengthening ties with Malaysia in various sectors including defense and trade.
- The visit underscores India’s firm stance on terrorism and the need for cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
- Technology cooperation, especially in semiconductors and digital advancements, is a priority for both nations.