Meanwhile, Modi said he was grateful for the security cooperation with Malaysia as it underlined shared commitment to deal with security challenges. “We will continue to deepen our cooperation in this area”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told his Malaysian counterpart Najib Razak at a joint media interaction after their talks here.
Advertisement
Modi said both countries are closely aligned in their vision and approach to the region and work closely in regional forums.
“India’s links with Malaysia are very old”, Modi said as he called on Razak to “work with renewed vigour” to maintain the momentum of the partnership between the two countries.
Modi on Monday highlighted the cultural ties of India with this southeast nation as he inaugurated a Torana gate, a traditional gateway to Hindu and Buddhist temples at Putrajaya.
“We must build new global resolve and new strategies for combating terrorism, without balancing it against political considerations”, the prime minister added. The flow of investments, presence of a large Indian diaspora and its expertise in urban and skill development make it very important for India.
Mr. Modi said Mr. Najib and he were determined to explore steps to show concrete and early results.
Modi also promised a greater role for Singapore in India’s growth story and said the city-state will be a major trading partner for India.
“The prime minister of India conveyed the steps being taken by the government of India to provide a conducive environment for investors, and invited Malaysian investors to participate in economic activities for the mutual benefits of both countries”, it added.
Najib said the gate was a window into the rich culture and history of India.
He will also deliver a special address at the India-Singapore Economic Convention hosted by Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S Iswaran on Nov 24 and interact with Singapore business leaders.
Modi ended his Malaysia visit on Monday and then headed to Singapore.
Modi, who is here for a maiden official visit after assuming his post in 2014, arrived in Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to attend the 27th Asean Summit and Related Summits.
His Malaysian counterpart Najib Razak warmly welcomed him, following which Prime Minister Modi inspected the guard of honour during the ceremonial welcome.
Our strategic partnership will go to a new level.
He will have a series of engagements tomorrow, including with the country’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Advertisement
Defence and security were key areas in which both countries were looking to ramp up bilateral cooperation.
