China and Malaysia Unite to Launch the East Coast Rail Link
In a significant stride for regional connectivity, Chinese Premier Li Qiang joined Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Wednesday to break ground for the Gombak integrated terminal station of Malaysia’s East Coast Rail Link (ECRL). The ceremony marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the two nations under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Premier Li expressed heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated builders from both countries, acknowledging their hard work and commitment. “The ECRL stands as a flagship project of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Malaysia,” Li remarked. “With our combined efforts, I am confident that this project will be constructed to the highest standards—efficient, safe, and reliable—setting a new benchmark for international collaboration.”
The ECRL is poised to become a vital transportation artery, traversing Malaysia’s east coast and catalyzing economic growth. It is expected to play a crucial role in promoting development, generating employment opportunities, and enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. “This railway will not only bridge distances but also bring prosperity and happiness to our people,” Li emphasized.
Looking beyond national borders, Premier Li highlighted China’s readiness to work with Malaysia in exploring connections between the ECRL and other regional rail networks, including the China-Laos and China-Thailand railways. Such integration aims to advance the construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, fostering greater regional connectivity and contributing to the deepening of the ASEAN community’s development.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of the ECRL in strengthening Malaysia’s infrastructure and its role in regional trade. The joint efforts exemplify the enduring partnership between China and Malaysia, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations for progress.
As the ECRL project moves forward, it symbolizes more than just a railway; it represents a bridge between nations, economies, and peoples, reinforcing the vision of a connected and prosperous Asia.
Reference(s):
Premier Li attends groundbreaking of key BRI project in Malaysia
cgtn.com
