Shri Sharma apprised him about the progress of negotiations, expressing optimism in concluding negotiations by end of the year. Mr. Najib said that Malaysia is keen to develop the knowledge-based industry in partnership with India and would like to see greater movement of Indian specialists and professionals towards this end. He expressed satisfaction on the dynamism of India- Malaysia bilateral trade, expressing hope that the target of $ 15 billion would be met much earlier than 2015. He further underlined the growing partnership between Indian and Malaysian corporates, specially commending the Terminal 3 of IGI Airport as a shining example of collaboration. Mr. Najib evinced keen interest in collaboration in infrastructure, energy and gave a special emphasis on renewable energy collaboration for rural electrification in Malaysia. Shri Sharma sought greater Malaysian investments in building physical infrastructure and the participation of Malaysian sovereign investment funds.

Earlier in the day, Shri Sharma had bilateral talks with his counterpart Minister Dato' Sri Mustapa Muhamed. During the meeting, both ministers reviewed the progress in ongoing CECA negotiations and agreed to conclude a balanced and ambitious agreement by the end of the year. Taking stock of bilateral trade and investment relations, they expressed confidence of achieving the target set for bilateral trade. Investments from both sides are in the range of $ 5 billion and the ministers identified priority sectors for future engagement including infrastructure, particularly highways, railways and airports, IT and ITES, biotechnology, tourism and health services. They also agreed to encourage joint investment projects in third countries, citing the successful execution of airport project in Istanbul. Minister Mustapa will be travelling to India with a CEO delegation focusing on tier 2 cities.

During his visit, Shri Sharma also met Minister for Transport Datuk Sri Kong Cho Ha and Minister in Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Noor Mohammed and CEO's of top Malaysian companies such as Malaysian Airport Holding, AXIATA, IJM Corporation, UEM corporation, etc. Shri Sharma will be jointly addressing a business conference tomorrow with Malaysian PM Najib, which is likely to be attended by over 500 CEOs from Malaysia and India.