Defence, semiconductors: What featured in PM's bilaterals with Malaysia, Ethiopia

Malaysia and Ethiopia have expressed interest in strengthening defence cooperation with India, including personnel training and defence procurement, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, sources said.Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian Abiy Ahmed Ali for separate bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit, which is being held in New Delhi.According to government sources, both nations have expressed interest in strengthening defence cooperation with India, including personnel training and defence procurement, and trade and investment.Ethiopia also welcomed Indian investment, particularly from mining companies, while discussions with Malaysia included opportunities in the semiconductor sector, the government sources added.According to the External Affairs Ministry, PM Modi and Ibrahim reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, the digital economy, energy, fintech, education, tourism and people-to-people ties.

They also discussed key regional and global issues of mutual interest.PM Modi shared some pictures of his meeting with Ibrahim on X, with one showing the two leaders walking hand-in-hand. He termed the India-Malaysia friendship as one between "maritime neighbours and close partners" and powered by the people of both countries." Delighted to meet PM Anwar Ibrahim. India-Malaysia ties are moving into ambitious new areas like semiconductors, critical minerals, clean energy, infrastructure and talent mobility.

Our growing defence partnership, expanding two-way investments and deeper people-to-people links reflect the new momentum in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. India and Malaysia will continue to work together and realise the full potential of this relationship," PM Modi tweeted.In a light moment, Ibrahim also mentioned PM Modi's global popularity at the start of their bilateral meeting, saying he was receiving a flurry of messages to pass on their regards and best wishes to the Indian leader.The Malaysian PM's visit builds on PM Modi's visit to the neighbouring nation in February 2026.

Furthermore, Malaysia participates in the BRICS Leaders' Summit as the bloc's partner country at India's invitation.Ibrahim is also scheduled to visit Kerala, where he will meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister VD Satheesan and Grand Mufti of India Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad. The meetings are expected to focus on community development, education and interfaith harmony.Meanwhile, during his meeting with Abiy Ahmed, PM Modi discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Ethiopia Strategic Partnership, including cooperation in the economic, defence and security sectors.

The two leaders also reiterated their commitment to amplifying the collective voice of the Global South and exchanged views on regional and international developments.The Indian PM also tweeted about his meeting with Abiy Ahmed, saying both sides are "taking an old friendship into new frontiers"." Delighted to welcome PM Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali on his first visit to India. Today's talks covered: Defence. Capacity building.

Investment linkages. Critical minerals. Clean energy. Healthcare. Together, we will also strengthen India-Africa ties and amplify the voice of the Global South," he tweeted.The BRICS Leaders' Summit brings together leaders of member and partner countries to discuss issues including global governance, sustainable development, economic cooperation, trade and investment, digital transformation and challenges facing developing countries.- EndsPublished By: sharangee Published On: Sep 12, 2026 14:30 IST