Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Malaysia has once again exposed Pakistan’s unease, as India and Malaysia held wide-ranging discussions on counter-terrorism, defence cooperation, and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi delivered a firm message, stating that there would be zero tolerance for double standards on terrorism.
As India–Malaysia ties gained momentum, Pakistan appeared to respond swiftly by dispatching its Navy Chief, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, to Malaysia. The move is being viewed as an attempt by Pakistan to counter India’s growing diplomatic influence in the region. While Prime Minister Modi was in Malaysia on Sunday, Admiral Naveed Ashraf met Royal Malaysian Navy Chief Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmy bin Ithnain.
According to a statement by the Pakistan Navy, the meeting focused on maritime security, operational cooperation, and capacity building. Pakistan also claimed participation in regional maritime security initiatives and combined maritime forces. However, the timing of the visit has drawn attention, particularly as India was simultaneously strengthening strategic engagement with Malaysia.
In a joint statement with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister Modi reiterated a strong stance against terrorism, emphasizing “no double standards and no compromise.” Without naming any country, the message was widely interpreted as a direct warning to those sheltering cross-border terrorism, a reference seen as aimed at Pakistan.
The joint statement further acknowledged the links between terrorism and transnational organized crime. Both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation against international organized crime, including intelligence and information sharing. They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts through platforms such as the United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
India and Malaysia also agreed to deepen cooperation in high-priority sectors, including trade and investment, defence, energy, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductors. Prime Minister Modi подчеркed that both nations remain firmly committed to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
