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Christmas of 2014 had been christened Good Governance Day by the newly-elected NDA Government. Offices had been kept open to…
Malaysia PM said that both countries were committed in fighting terrorism and his country was willing to provide know-how on de-radicalisation of terrorists.
It was a historic moment for Malaysia and India when the leaders of the two countries used digital technology to hold a video conference for the first time to forge closer ties.
The 30-minute live crossover session between Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and Prime Minister Narendra Modi saw both leaders expressing a common goal of establishing a strategic partnership with Malaysia as a gateway to ASEAN, to achieve stronger inter-Asian ties.
Najib praised Modi for bringing much change and economic progress to India.
“I congratulate you for being a bold reformist in which a lesser mortal would have not dared to attempt.
“I wish you all the success and if you are courageous enough to do the reforms, you will reap the rewards in due course,” he said during the exchange with Modi at the inaugural Asian Business Leaders Conclave here on Wednesday.
Earlier, Najib noted that Malaysia and India shared strong economic and cultural ties.
“There is great depth and history to the relationship between us.
“India has been Malaysia’s largest export destination in the South Asian region since 1998,” he said.
He said trade with India had increased four-fold between 2003 and 2015, adding that it amounted to RM47bil last year.
“This Conclave could not have come at a better time as our relations are at a historic high.
“Over the last few years, they have been enhanced by our agreement to form a strategic partnership – the Malaysia-India Comprehensive Economic Agreement or Miceca,” he said.
He alluded to Modi’s visit to Malaysia in November last year, where both leaders jointly launched India’s gift – The Torana Gate – at Malaysia’s Little India.
Najib said that both countries were committed in fighting terrorism and Malaysia was willing to provide know-how on de-radicalisation of terrorists.
He also assured Modi that Malaysia would fully support activities and programmes that India plans to hold here in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations next year.
“I look forward to your visit next year to further cement ties.”
Modi praised Najib for his leadership and resilience in bringing about transformation and economic growth despite global uncertainties.
He expressed confidence that Najib would steer the nation towards its goal to achieve developed nation status.
Modi noted that officials from India had come to Malaysia last year to learn more of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation here.
“I am happy to announce that the constitutional amendment for the GST has been passed and is expected to be implemented next year,” he said.
He said India would also strive to forge closer ties with ASEAN.
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