India, Malaysia Enhance Trade and Defense Ties

India and Malaysia have agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' following a meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Anwar Ibrahim in New Delhi. This marks a significant shift in ties that had soured since 2019 due to comments made by former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad regarding India's actions in Kashmir. Both leaders emphasized boosting cooperation in key sectors such as semiconductors, financial technology, and defense production, with Malaysia having invested $5 billion in India over the past year. Anwar expressed a desire to reinvigorate relations across various fields and highlighted the potential for economic collaboration and trade. The countries have also begun conducting trade using their own currencies, a move designed to enhance economic ties amid global financial shifts. The meeting signifies a renewed commitment to strengthen ties, with both leaders acknowledging the historical connections between their nations.