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.
