In a significant move to bolster regional prosperity, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, in Beijing on Wednesday. The leaders expressed a shared commitment to enhance multilateral coordination and safeguard the favorable development environment in East Asia.
As this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, Premier Li highlighted the longstanding mutual respect and equality that have characterized their bilateral ties. “China is willing to advance high-level exchanges under the strategic guidance of our leaders,” Li stated. He emphasized the importance of supporting each other’s core interests in sovereignty and security and leveraging complementary economic strengths to foster regional stability and development.
Premier Li outlined China’s dedication to strengthening strategic alignment with Malaysia. He underscored the potential for cooperation in key projects under the Belt and Road Initiative, particularly in emerging fields such as the digital economy and new energy vehicles. Li called for expanded trade volumes and increased collaboration in education, culture, and youth exchanges to achieve win-win outcomes.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid affirmed Malaysia’s readiness to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including economy, trade, investment, vocational education, and sustainable development. He pledged to promote people-to-people exchanges and advance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. “Malaysia firmly adheres to the one-China policy and condemns all forms of prejudice,” he stated, noting that Malaysia-China relations are not influenced by external forces.
Addressing regional concerns, Ahmad Zahid highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to advancing negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. He asserted that efforts by external parties to create instability in the region would not succeed. “Malaysia is willing to work with China to deepen coordination on regional and international affairs,” he added.
The meeting between the two leaders signifies a mutual dedication to fostering closer ties and contributing to the prosperity and stability of East Asia. The collaborative efforts in enhancing multilateral coordination are expected to have a positive impact on the broader Asian region.
Reference(s):
Premier Li: China to enhance multilateral coordination with Malaysia
cgtn.com
