India to raise presence in Malaysian economy, deepen security cooperation: PM Modi

“The Torana Gate is not only a symbol of the friendship between India and Malaysia, but it is also a symbol of unity and understanding amidst established ethnic diversity in Malaysia”, it said.

Prime Minister Modi said the gate will be a milestone in India’s relations with Malaysia.

“The Indian government is also inviting Malaysian investors to participate in economic activities following new developmental and business initiatives undertaken by India”, he said.

“The recent spate of attacks in different countries, not to mention the ceaseless attacks against India and Afghanistan, are a reminder of the global nature of this threat”, Mr Modi said, praising Mr Najib for his “leadership in combating extremism and radicalisation”.

Defence and security were key areas in which both countries were looking to ramp up bilateral cooperation. We have very old links of culture and religion.

Modi is expected to meet chief executive officers from Malaysian companies to explore potential synergies between the private sectors of both countries.

Modi said the gate was first made by emperor Ashoka in Madhya Pradesh and was dedicated to Lord Buddha.

“As our lives get more networked, this is emerging as one of the most serious concerns of our age”, he stated.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi had indicated his desire for such an arrangement. “We will continue to deepen our cooperation in this area”, he said on the third day of his visit to Malaysia that marked the beginning of the bilateral phase.

“Torana Gate is a symbol of India-Malaysia friendship. We want to raise the level of Indian presence in the Malaysian economy”.

The joint statement further said that both sides would hold regular foreign office consultations to enable both countries to monitor the progress of bilateral cooperation, including on regional and strategic issues of mutual interest. “It is a clear signal of closer cooperation and people to people interaction”, he said.

“I am pleased that we have agreed to upgrade our joint exercises and set up the SU-30 Forum”, he said, adding that both sides will do more in terms of level and complexity of exercises and collaboration in training and defence equipment.