Doval leads India, Malaysia security talk

Two sides exchange views on global, regional security; will 'deepen cooperation' in counter-terrorism, deradicalisation

- JAYANTH JACOB @ New Delhi

INDIA and Malaysia on Tuesday agreed to strengthen collaboration in counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, and the defence industry during their inaugural security dialogue, a key outcome of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent visit to New Delhi.

The two countries have expanded their defence and security ties in the recent years through various bilateral agreements, mechanisms, and joint military exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability between their armed forces.

During Anwar's visit last August, India-Malaysia bilateral ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in bilateral security.

The first India-Malaysia security dialogue, held in New Delhi, was co-chaired by National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and Raja Dato Nushirwan Bin Zainal Abidin, director-general of Malaysia's National Security Council.