In a significant development for Southeast Asia, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur to reinforce the strong ties between China and Malaysia. Premier Li emphasized that the bilateral relationship stands at the forefront of regional relations, setting a benchmark for cooperation and mutual growth.
During his first official visit to Malaysia, Premier Li highlighted the enduring friendship and win-win cooperation that has characterized China-Malaysia relations over the past fifty years. He stressed the commitment of both nations to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and advocated for the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in regional collaboration.
The leaders discussed advancing major infrastructure projects such as the East Coast Rail Link and the \"Two Countries, Twin Parks\" initiative. They also explored expanding trade and investment, particularly in logistics, new energy, artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and railway equipment. Additionally, both countries are keen on strengthening efforts in poverty reduction to achieve sustainable development.
Premier Li expressed China's willingness to prioritize bilateral relations in both countries' foreign policies and seize the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to build a China-Malaysia community with a shared future. Both leaders committed to enhancing high-quality implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and speeding up negotiations for version 3.0 of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area.
Prime Minister Anwar reiterating Malaysia's support for the one-China policy and rejecting any advocacy for \"Taiwan independence,\" also welcomed China's initiatives like the Global Development Initiative and expressed support for China's application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership.
The meeting concluded with the exchange of bilateral cooperation documents across various sectors, including economy and trade, science and technology, culture, tourism, and higher education, solidifying the commitment to deepen China-Malaysia relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
