Kuala Lumpur [Malaysia], February 7 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Malaysia for a two-day visit and was received at the airport by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who greeted him with a hug. A large contingent from the Indian diaspora in Malaysia welcomed PM Modi at the airport. Schoolchildren holding Indian and Malaysian flags waved as the two prime ministers walked down the red carpet. The leaders were later seen sharing the same car as they drove to the official hotel.
Earlier, PM Modi said he was visiting Malaysia at the invitation of his “friend” Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and indicated that India seeks deeper defence and security ties with Malaysia.
“I am embarking on an Official Visit to Malaysia at the invitation of my friend, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today,” his departure statement said.
“The historic ties between India and Malaysia have seen steadfast progress in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and further enhancing our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. We will aim to deepen our defence and security ties, enhance our economic and innovation partnership, and expand our collaboration into new domains,” the statement added. PM Modi also expressed eagerness to meet the Indian community in Malaysia.
“I am also eager to meet the Indian community in Malaysia. Numbering nearly three million, they represent one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world. Their immense contribution to Malaysia’s progress and their role as a living bridge between our two nations provides a strong foundation to our historic friendship,” he said.
The visit, from February 7-8, will include bilateral talks between PM Modi and PM Anwar Ibrahim. It marks PM Modi’s third visit to Malaysia and his first since bilateral relations were elevated to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” in August 2024, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
India is exploring defence-sector collaboration opportunities during the visit, including the sale of Dornier aircraft and maintenance of Scorpene submarines and SU-30 aircraft, the Ministry of External Affairs said. PM Modi will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora in Malaysia and business representatives. (ANI)
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