Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali at the BRICS summit in New Delhi, discussing enhanced defence cooperation and economic ties. According to Indian government sources, the meetings resulted in a new trajectory for India’s relations with both countries, with defence collaboration, investment, and emerging technologies as key areas of focus. Joint personnel training and defence procurement from India were discussed, as well as opportunities in the semiconductor industry with Malaysia and mining investments in Ethiopia.

The Indian readout of the meeting with Malaysia noted that Modi and Ibrahim reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, defence, semiconductors, infrastructure, and digital economy. Ibrahim conveyed Malaysia’s agreement to establish a Consulate General of India in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Modi appreciated Malaysia’s support for ASEAN-India relations and reaffirmed commitment to the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

In the meeting with Ethiopia, the leaders reviewed progress in economic cooperation, defence and security partnerships, and capacity building. The discussions built on Modi’s previous visit to Addis Ababa in December 2025. Modi expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s participation in the BRICS summit, noting its role in reinforcing the collective voice of the Global South.

Government sources stated that both Ethiopia and Malaysia expressed keenness to deepen defence ties with India, including joint personnel training and procurement of defence equipment from Indian companies. The discussions align with India’s broader strategy to expand its defence partnerships, particularly with countries in the Global South, where interest in Indian military platforms has been growing. Countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Armenia have already engaged in significant defence deals with India.

Malaysia’s interest in BrahMos missiles, including an air-launched variant for its Su-30 fighter aircraft, could further strengthen defence-industrial cooperation between the two nations. India also seeks to attract Malaysian companies while encouraging Indian businesses to expand their presence in Malaysia. Ethiopia, meanwhile, has shown interest in Indian mining companies, which could open new opportunities for Indian firms in Ethiopia’s natural-resource sector.

The details of specific agreements or commitments remain unclear. The focus on defence and economic ties reflects India’s broader strategy to position itself as a reliable and cost-effective defence partner and economic collaborator for countries seeking to diversify their international partnerships.

The discussions also highlight India’s growing influence in the Global South, where it is increasingly seen as a viable alternative to Western suppliers for military and economic cooperation. However, the exact nature and scope of the agreements reached during the BRICS summit remain to be confirmed. Further developments will depend on the outcomes of subsequent bilateral negotiations and the implementation of the discussed initiatives.