What is the opinion of scholars on speaking to and approaching a girl with the intention of marriage, and are there new legitimate ways to get to know a girl, knowing that companionship (dating) is forbidden in Islam?

The basic principle is for men to avoid foreign women. The Shari'ah has established guidelines for interaction between the sexes, prohibiting seclusion with them or speaking to them without necessity. When there is a desire for marriage, there is no harm in one party proposing to the other, provided that the Shari'ah guidelines are observed, such as avoiding seclusion or softening one's speech. One must beware of emotional relationships or excessive conversation under the pretext of getting acquainted for marriage. The best way to get to know a girl is to ask trustworthy individuals who know her, alongside the importance of performing Istikhara (prayer for guidance) after seeking counsel.