India, Malaysia elevate ties; pacts on jobs, repatriation of workers

The two sides also deliberated upon new possibilities of cooperation in the defence sector. “We have unanimous views in combating terrorism and extremism,” PM Modi said.

In an apparent reference to the situation in South China Sea, Modi said, “We are committed to the freedom of navigation, overflight as per international laws and favour resolution of all disputes peacefully.”

In his remarks, Ibrahim called Modi his “brother” and said all issues, sensitive or likewise, were discussed in a reflection of the true meaning of friendship between the two countries. Modi described Malaysia as an “important partner” of India in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific region.

The focus of the talks was on expanding trade and investment and exploring cooperation in new and emerging areas such as fintech and semiconductors. The two sides also inked a number of pacts, including on employment and repatriation of workers.

In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the two Prime Ministers said they “condemn terrorism and agree to call upon States to reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations”. Both underlined that no country should harbour terrorists and agreed to work together to bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice expeditiously.

They also agreed to recognise and vigorously address the “linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime”, the statement said.
“The two leaders had extensive discussions on trade and commerce, defence and security, on cultural exchanges, people to people ties, on emerging areas like digital technologies, semiconductors, renewable energy and sustainable development,” officials from the Ministry of External Affairs said.

PM Modi and Malaysia PM Ibrahim developed a very “close rapport and personal connection” during the Raisina Dialogue 2019, officials said.

Ibrahim said his country would reinvigorate relations with India in all fields. “There are so many areas that we need to explore further,” he said.
Ibrahim’s visit comes at a time when India and Malaysia have marked around 10 years of enhanced strategic partnership. Relations between the two countries came under a cloud in 2019 following remarks by then Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad against New Delhi abrogating Article 370 in Kashmir.