Kuala lumpur: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the 47th ASEAN Summit virtually due to the concurrent Deepavali celebrations in India, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar shared that this information was conveyed to him during a phone conversation with Modi the previous evening.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed his respect for Modi's decision and extended Deepavali greetings to him and the people of India through a Facebook post. The two leaders also explored ways to elevate Malaysia-India bilateral relations to a more strategic and comprehensive level.

India continues to be a significant partner for Malaysia in trade and investment, with both nations enjoying collaboration in technology, education, and regional security. Anwar emphasized Malaysia's commitment to enhancing Malaysia-India relations and furthering ASEAN-India cooperation to foster a peaceful and prosperous region.

The 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits are set to occur at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from October 26 to 28. The event will see participation from over 30 heads of state and government focusing on regional peace, economic resilience, and inclusive growth, under Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'.