New Delhi

India and Malaysia have taken an important step towards taking bilateral security cooperation to a new dimension.

The first security talks between the two countries were held in New Delhi on 7 January 2025. The talks were co-chaired by Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of India, and Raja Dato Nushirwan Bin Zainal Abidin, Director General of the National Security Council of Malaysia.

During this historic meeting, both countries had in-depth discussions on the global and regional security scenario. Reviewing the ongoing bilateral cooperation in the security, defence, and maritime sectors, both sides agreed on a number of important issues:

Tackling terrorism and radicalism: Both countries committed to strengthen mutual cooperation to combat the threats of terrorism and extremism.

Cyber ​​Security: Emphasis was laid on increasing bilateral cooperation to counter cyber threats in the digital age.

Defense Industry and Maritime Security: Measures to deepen defense industry partnership and strengthen maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region were discussed.

Cooperation in Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Elements: Both countries explored the possibilities of enhancing this cooperation in the economic and technological fields.

The first security talks between India and Malaysia held in New Delhi

The decision was taken to hold the annual talks every year to make this dialogue more organised and effective. This is expected to bring continuity and depth in security cooperation between India and Malaysia.

The talks are a result of the visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to India in August 2024. The visit took place at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which the two leaders decided to elevate bilateral relations to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. During this period, India and Malaysia had agreed to give priority to security cooperation.

This security dialogue has not only strengthened the bilateral relations between India and Malaysia, but also laid the foundation of a new partnership for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

After the talks, representatives of both the countries expressed confidence that this initiative will further strengthen economic, social and security relations between India and Malaysia.

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This dialogue is an excellent example of mutual cooperation and unity between two friendly countries amidst global security challenges.