PM Modi and PM Ibrahim Strengthen India-Malaysia Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met on Sunday to expand cooperation in several high-priority areas. Both leaders committed to strengthening ties in trade, investment, defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing.
A Firm Stand Against Terrorism
During their talks, PM Modi delivered a strong message on global security. “Our message on terrorism is clear. No double standards. No compromise,” he stated. Both leaders condemned terrorism in all forms, including cross-border terrorism, and called for “zero tolerance” toward extremist activities. They agreed to work together to stop terror financing and prevent the misuse of new technologies for violent purposes.
New Agreements in Technology and Governance
India and Malaysia signed 11 agreements to deepen their partnership. Key highlights include:
- Semiconductors: A new framework to cooperate on advanced chip manufacturing.
- Anti-Corruption: A partnership between Malaysia’s Anti-Corruption Commission and India’s CBI to fight graft.
- Digital Innovation: Plans to collaborate on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital health.
Boosting Economic Ties and Local Currencies
Both prime ministers welcomed the use of local currencies—the Indian Rupee and the Malaysian Ringgit—for trade. The Reserve Bank of India and the Malaysian Central Bank are currently working on the details to make this official. PM Ibrahim praised India’s “spectacular” economic rise and noted that Malaysia stands to benefit greatly from closer collaboration.
Strengthening Regional Security
As maritime neighbors, both countries are focusing on peace in the Indo-Pacific. PM Modi emphasized:
- Maritime Security: Increased cooperation in intelligence sharing and naval ties.
- ASEAN Centrality: India remains committed to working with the 10-nation ASEAN group to promote stability.
- UN Reform: Malaysia expressed its support for India becoming a permanent member of a reformed UN Security Council.
Cultural and Diplomatic Growth
In a move to strengthen people-to-people ties, PM Modi announced the establishment of a Thiruvalluvar chair at the University of Malaya. Additionally, India will open a new Consulate General in Malaysia to better serve the region.
Future Outlook
The leaders also discussed connecting India’s UPI payment system with Malaysian banks, which would make transactions easier for tourists and businesses. PM Modi concluded by noting that in a world of global instability, the growing friendship between India and Malaysia is more important than ever.
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