Calicut in focus ahead of Anwar's visit to Keralam after BRICS Summit

Calicut, also known as Kozhikode, is capturing global attention in anticipation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Keralam tomorrow, following his involvement in the 18th BRICS Summit. The bustling city buzzes with daily life as anticipation grows over Anwar's arrival, following the disclosure of his official itinerary.

Anwar is set to engage in discussions with India's Grand Mufti Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad to explore community development, educational progress, and interfaith cohesion. On Monday, he will meet Keralam's Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to bolster bilateral cooperation across vital sectors like trade, investment, tourism, healthcare, and education.

The Malaysian delegation's presence and extensive media coverage of Anwar's schedule have positioned Calicut as a focal point during his southern India tour. Celebrated as a historic trading center and port along the Malabar Coast, Calicut was central to the spice trade with foreign merchants and holds a significant place in global history due to Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama's landing at Kappad beach in 1498, marking the European discovery of the sea route to India.

A commemorative monument at Kappad honors this momentous event. Anwar arrived in New Delhi on Friday to attend the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he met with Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. After his visit to Keralam, Anwar is set to depart for the Maldives on September 14.