KUALA LUMPUR: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak today jointly inaugurated the Torana Gate at Little India, Brickfields.

More than 5,000 people gathered around Little India as early 10am and loudly cheered for Modi and Najib as they arrived at 12.30pm.

Najib, in his speech said the Torana Gate is a symbol of India-Malaysia friendship.

"I highly appreciate the great care that has been taken by experts and teams from both countries in ensuring the successful construction of the Gate, whose detailed craftsmanship and magnificent architecture will surely make it a new landmark in Kuala Lumpur.

"The Gate also offers a way into the rich culture and history of India, one of the oldest and greatest civilisations in the world.

"The Torana Gate marks another high point in the long-standing history of good relations between Malaysia and India. It signals closer cooperation and a new dimension to people-to-people engagement between both countries."

Najib added that he was confident that the Gate will swiftly become an attraction for tourists.

Meanwhile, Modi in his speech said the Torana Gate will be a milestone in strengthening the relation between both India and Malaysia.

"The Torana Gate highlights the rich cultural tradition of both nations... and is also a symbol of strong brotherhood between Malaysia and India."

Modi also congratulated Najib for his far-sightedness in taking the relationship between both nations further.

Accompanied by rhythmic drumming and followed by a countdown, Najib and Modi jointly officiated the Torana Gate at 12.50pm.

The Torana Gate is a gift from India to the people of Malaysia as a mark of continued friendship between both countries.

Leaders of both nations signed a plaque before they left signifying the enduring friendship between India and Malaysia.