PM Anwar Reaffirms Relations Of Deep Trust With China, Praises President Xi's Leadership
From Harlina Samson
HANGZHOU, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today highlighted the deep-rooted trust and mutual confidence underpinning Malaysia's bilateral relationship with China, describing the partnership as one that transcends traditional diplomatic ties.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Anwar emphasised that Malaysia attaches great importance to its relationship with Beijing and the vision of President Xi Jinping, particularly regarding shared prosperity, ethical governance, and bridging the digital divide for the Global South.
“Our relations transcend just normal diplomatic relations. It is built on trust and confidence, and we need friends who value this friendship,” Anwar said in his opening remarks during the meeting.
Stressing on Malaysia’s stance on China and regional matters such as the South China Sea, the Prime Minister reiterated that Malaysia values Beijing’s commitment to its promises and views the nation through a unique lens.
“Every time they interview me, they ask about our relationship with China... but Premier Li Qiang, please accept this with all sincerity, that we value this friendship and we see that you honour your commitment,” he stated.
Anwar also expressed his appreciation for China’s leadership in key global discussions and noted the shared values between both nations in governance and ethical developments.
Highlighting Hangzhou’s status as a digital and artificial intelligence (AI) hub, Anwar commended Li for his contributions to the region's development.
Anwar noted that his attendance at events held in both Shanghai and Hangzhou during his three-day working visit was a direct reflection of the close personal and working rapport shared with the Chinese leadership.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the ongoing trajectory of Malaysia-China relations as both nations move forward to discuss further substantive matters aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The meeting, which began at noon at the West Lake State Guest House here, was among the key engagements on the final day of Anwar’s working visit to China, which ended today.
The meeting lasted about 50 minutes, with both the leaders and delegation adjourning to a luncheon hosted by Li.
In his welcoming remarks for Anwar and his delegation, Li described Malaysia-China relations as one of the priorities in Beijing’s neighbourhood diplomacy.
He said that amid escalating global conflicts, turmoil and uncertainty, close communication and coordination between the two countries could provide greater certainty for their shared development.
Li also described President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia in April as the opening of a new “Golden 50 Years” in Malaysia-China relations.
According to him, China is ready to work hand in hand with Malaysia to strengthen political trust and intensify the building of the China-Malaysia community, including through cooperation in science and technology, digital trade, and vocational skills.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, was accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The working visit, at the invitation of the Chinese government, is Anwar’s fourth visit to the country since becoming Prime Minister in 2022.
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching US$113.82 billion (RM456.68 billion) for the period of January to August this year.
-- BERNAMA