Malaysia PM Stresses Importance of Bilateral Ties Amid Zakir Naik Extradition Issue
On the matter of India’s request for the extradition of Zakir Naik, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has communicated a willingness to consider the request, contingent upon the presentation of adequate evidence by the Indian government. This statement was made during an interactive session at the Indian Council of World Affairs, where Mr. Ibrahim underscored the importance of prioritizing bilateral relations amidst the ongoing issue.
The Indian authorities have been pursuing the extradition of Zakir Naik on grounds of alleged money laundering and incitement of extremism through hate speeches. Naik departed India in 2016 and was subsequently granted permanent residency in Malaysia under the previous administration led by Mahathir Mohamed.
Mr. Ibrahim clarified that although the issue had been previously discussed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it was not a topic of conversation during the recent talks. He emphasized that the focus should not be solely on one individual, but rather on addressing the broader concern of extremism and the presentation of compelling evidence against any individual or group involved in such activities.
“We will not condone terrorism… We have been firm and have collaborated with India on many of these issues, against terrorism. But I don’t think this one case should deter us from further collaboration and enhancing our bilateral cooperation,” stated Mr. Ibrahim, reaffirming his commitment to combatting terrorism and strengthening bilateral ties with India.
Additionally, during his visit, the Malaysian Prime Minister expressed criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, labeling it as “sheer hypocrisy” on the part of the West. He condemned the atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza and stressed the need to end the hypocrisy surrounding the global response to such conflicts, regardless of the religious or ethnic background of the victims.
“It doesn’t matter whether the victims are Muslims or Christians or Hindus or Buddhists or whatever. They are human beings, and in this age for us (to say) that ‘I am sorry, nothing can be done’, is atrocious,” Mr. Ibrahim emphasized, highlighting the universal importance of addressing humanitarian crises without bias or double standards.
The visit of the Malaysian Prime Minister to India underscores the significance of fostering productive and respectful international relations in the face of complex geopolitical challenges. This diplomatic approach to addressing the Zakir Naik extradition issue and the stance on global humanitarian concerns serves as a testament to the commitment to constructive international cooperation.
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