Modi's Malaysia Visit: Beyond Courtesy, A Sharper Strategic Alignment

• PM Modi's visit to Malaysia signals a deepening strategic and economic partnership between India and Southeast Asia.
• The visit highlighted growing political comfort between Modi and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, moving beyond ceremonial diplomacy.
• India positioned itself as a 'trusted partner for growth,' emphasizing its economic and technological advancements.
• Key discussions included defence cooperation, counter-terrorism alignment, and a shared commitment to a rules-based maritime order.
• Bilateral trade reached a record $19 billion, with talks on local currency trade and digital payment platforms, though Zakir Naik's extradition remains unresolved.