Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first overseas trip of the year took him through Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia, underscoring Beijing’s push for stronger neighborly ties and a commitment to multilateral trade.
Building Stronger Bonds in Vietnam
In Hanoi, Xi and Vietnam’s leaders leaned on strategic guidance known as the 'six mores' to elevate bilateral ties. New agreements on railway upgrades highlight the two sides’ resolve to link up key logistics corridors and foster shared growth.
High-Level Community with Malaysia
In Kuala Lumpur, Xi and Malaysia’s leaders upgraded their partnership into a high-level strategic community with a shared future. They pledged to lead the region in cutting-edge fields like the digital economy, green industries and artificial intelligence.
An All-Weather Partnership in Cambodia
Xi’s visit to Phnom Penh marked the first time China elevated ties with a Southeast Asian state to an all-weather community with a shared future. The move cements Phnom Penh’s role as a key partner in China’s regional vision.
Championing Open, Inclusive Growth
Throughout the tour, Xi stressed that economic globalization benefits all countries and warned against the fallout of trade wars. He called on China and its neighbors to stand together against protectionism and to embrace openness, welcoming more high-quality goods from member states of ASEAN.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi: President Xi's Southeast Asia tour boosts regional ties
cgtn.com
