KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8: India and Malaysia on Sunday announced several initiatives to strengthen cooperation in defence, security, trade, and semiconductors following wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking after the meeting, Modi emphasized India’s stance on terrorism, saying, “Our message on terrorism is clear; no double standards, no compromise.”
Modi arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday and received a grand red-carpet welcome, with Prime Minister Ibrahim personally receiving him at the airport. Ahead of the talks, Modi was accorded a ceremonial reception at Perdana Putra.
“India and Malaysia share a special relationship. We are maritime neighbours. For centuries, our people have had deep and affectionate ties,” Modi said, noting that Malaysia hosts the world’s second-largest population of Indian origin. “Our civilisations, shared cultural heritage, and democratic values bind us together,” he added.
Modi said both nations will enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security, while also making defence collaboration more comprehensive.
He highlighted partnerships in AI, digital technologies, semiconductors, health, and food security, and spoke on India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific, calling the region “the growth engine of the world” and reaffirming India’s commitment to development, peace, and stability alongside ASEAN countries.
Prime Minister Ibrahim said India and Malaysia continue to expand collaboration in trade, investment, connectivity, and defence, noting India’s significant rise in global trade and economic stature. (Agencies)
