india-backs-malaysia-for-asean-chairmanship-in-2025

India has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised this support during a press briefing following a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

 

Modi highlighted India’s priority for ASEAN and affirmed that India is keen on ensuring a successful chairmanship for Malaysia. He stressed the importance of completing the review of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and ASEAN in a timely manner. Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to freedom of navigation and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.

 

Reflecting on the historical ties between the two countries, Modi recalled the success of last year's ‘PIO Day’ in Malaysia. He acknowledged the vibrant Indian diaspora, which he described as a living bridge between the nations.

 

In recognition of this long-standing friendship, Modi announced that 100 seats will be allocated for Malaysians under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. This initiative aims to provide advanced training in fields like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

 

Additionally, Modi mentioned the establishment of an Ayurveda Chair at Malaysia’s University Tumko Abdul Rahman and a Thiruvalluvar Chair at a Malaysian university, further strengthening academic and cultural ties.

 

Prime Minister Modi also outlined the decision to elevate India-Malaysia relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He noted that Malaysian investments in India surpassed $5 billion last year, highlighting the robust economic collaboration between the two nations.

 

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reciprocated the sentiments, describing Modi as a “brother” and expressing appreciation for the strong bond between the two leaders. Ibrahim also voiced support for enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia.

 

The day’s events included the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements between the two countries, formalised in the presence of both Prime Ministers at Hyderabad House.

 

The bilateral meeting underscored the commitment of both nations to deepen their engagement across various domains, reinforcing their strategic partnership.