New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday expressed his desire for enhancing India's trade, investment, tourism, educational and cultural ties with Malaysia.

During a meeting with Malaysian Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, who called on him, Modi highlighted the importance of close cooperation between India and Malaysia as well as other ASEAN countries in advancing collective regional action for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

He also lauded the over two million-strong Indian community in Malaysia for contributing to economic development and enriching its pluralist society.

On behalf of the Malaysian prime minister, Palanivel extended an invitation to Modi to visit Malaysia.

"Prime Minister Modi agreed to visit Malaysia at a mutually convenient time," said an official statement.

The Malaysian minister sought enhanced cooperation in the areas of conservation of forests, wildlife protection, climate change technology and promotion of people-to-people contacts.

On Monday, he met Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar.