INDIA-MALAYSIA STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: India and Malaysia have taken a significant step forward in their bilateral relationship by upgrading their ties to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

EXPLANATION:

  • This development follows discussions between Indian Prime Minister and Malaysian Prime Minister, marking a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relations.
  • This upgrade in partnership aims to transcend past tensions and foster collaboration in multiple sectors, underscoring the evolving dynamics of India-Malaysia relations.

Historical Context and Past Tensions

  • The recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister to India is noteworthy as it is the first by a Malaysian leader since 2018.
  • The relationship between the two countries had faced challenges in recent years due to several contentious issues.
  • Malaysia’s criticism of India’s Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir, alongside India’s demand for the extradition of preacher Zakir Naik, had strained ties.
  • Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the detention of hundreds of Malaysians in India further complicated the relationship.
  • Recognizing the unfortunate stagnation of relations, both leaders have expressed a commitment to rejuvenating and strengthening their ties, acknowledging the deep historical connection between the two multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious nations.

Upgrading to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

  • The decision to upgrade the 2010 Strategic Partnership, which had been enhanced in 2015, to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” represents a renewed commitment to deepening collaboration.
  • This upgrade is accompanied by the signing of several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering a wide range of areas, including workers’ mobility, digital technology, culture, tourism, sports, and education.
  • The partnership is set to explore new areas of cooperation such as digital technologies, trade, modern agriculture, military collaboration, and joint border safeguarding operations.

Geopolitical and Regional Significance

  • During the discussions, both Prime Ministers addressed significant geopolitical challenges, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Indian Prime Minister emphasized India’s commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, advocating for the peaceful resolution of disputes.
  • He highlighted Malaysia’s importance as a key partner in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions, reflecting the strategic importance of maintaining stability and security in these areas.
  • Malaysian Prime Minister praised India’s “unique, multi-aligned approach” to global conflicts, suggesting that Malaysia could learn from India’s ability to compartmentalize its priorities and challenges.
  • He also contrasted the troubled histories of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans with the potential for the Indian Ocean region to become a stable and resilient backbone for the global economy.
  • The importance of India-Malaysia cooperation in maintaining Indian Ocean stability has been reinforced.

BRICS Membership and Multilateral Engagement

  • One of the significant outcomes of the discussions was India’s willingness to consider Malaysia’s request to join the BRICS grouping.
  • Malaysian Minister Ibrahim has been advocating for Malaysia’s inclusion in BRICS, and India’s agreement to work on this request marks a notable development in Malaysia’s foreign policy aspirations.
  • This potential membership could enhance Malaysia’s role in global economic and political forums, aligning with its broader strategic goals.

Economic Cooperation and Rice Export Allocation

  • Economic cooperation remains a cornerstone of the India-Malaysia relationship.
  • In response to Malaysia’s request, India has agreed to a one-time special allocation of 200,000 metric tonnes of white rice.
  • This allocation comes at a crucial time, as Malaysia has been seeking relief from India’s export curbs on rice and sugar.
  • Earlier this year, Malaysia had requested an additional 500,000 metric tonnes of white rice, highlighting its dependence on food imports from India.
  • This move by India not only strengthens economic ties but also demonstrates India’s responsiveness to Malaysia’s needs.

Addressing Sensitive Issues

  • The talks between the two leaders were described as “no holds barred,” covering all issues, including those deemed sensitive.
  • While neither leader directly addressed the more contentious issues publicly, the discussion reportedly included topics such as extremism and radicalism, indicating a mutual understanding of the importance of addressing these challenges.
  • The issue of Zakir Naik’s extradition, which has been a point of contention since 2017, was likely discussed, although there appears to be a shift in focus towards broader cooperation rather than pressing the matter at this time.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-malaysia-elevate-ties-to-comprehensive-strategic-partnership/article68546006.ece

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