New Delhi, Feb 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed optimism on Sunday that his recent trip to Malaysia would enhance the economic and cultural ties between the two countries.

After wrapping up his two-day visit to Malaysia, PM Modi expressed his appreciation to his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, and the Malaysian populace for their warm hospitality.

Sharing moments from his journey on X, PM Modi remarked: "I could not attend the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia last year, but I assured my friend, PM Anwar Ibrahim, that I would visit at the earliest chance."

"This visit marks my inaugural international trip of 2026, taking place in Malaysia. It is poised to enhance the economic and cultural connections between our nations. I extend my gratitude to PM Anwar Ibrahim, the government, and the citizens of Malaysia for their kindness," he added.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Randhir Jaiswal, noted that PM Modi's visit yielded significant results that will fortify bilateral relations.

"A remarkable visit comes to a close! Following a fruitful trip to Malaysia, characterized by exceptional warmth and hospitality and rooted in our shared cultural ties, PM Narendra Modi has returned to India. The visit resulted in substantial outcomes that will enhance India-Malaysia relations," Jaiswal posted on X.

Earlier that day, PM Modi met with CEOs from both India and Malaysia. In a post on X, the PM stated: "The CEO Forum has unlocked new avenues for trade and investment for both our nations."

PM Modi held discussions with his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, at the latter's official residence, Seri Perdana, on Sunday. The leaders assessed development cooperation in various sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and biotechnology, and agreed to bolster collaboration in security, defense technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and semiconductors.

"I had a fruitful meeting with PM Anwar Ibrahim at Seri Perdana earlier today. India and Malaysia, as maritime neighbors, have consistently shared a close friendship. We evaluated developmental cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, energy, IT, biotechnology, and more. We also committed to enhancing collaboration in security, defense, AI, digital technologies, and semiconductors," PM Modi posted on X.

"The connections between our people are fundamental to the India-Malaysia friendship. Initiatives such as the Social Security Agreement, a complimentary e-visa for tourism, and the introduction of UPI in Malaysia will strengthen our ties. We are also working to increase university exchanges and develop skill-building opportunities for our youth," he added.

During his two-day visit to Malaysia, PM Modi engaged with members of the Indian diaspora, met with Indian National Army (INA) veteran Jeyaraj Raja Rao, and interacted with Indian-origin leaders, including ministers and senators.