PUTRAJAYA: Resolving disputes in the South China Sea through peaceful means, the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and seizing opportunities under the Belt and Road Initiative are among issues which Malaysia and China have agreed upon.

Emphasising the importance of maintaining peace, security and stability in the South China Sea, the two countries agreed for disputes to be resolved through friendly consultations and negotiations.

“The two sides will work together with other Asean countries to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Code of Parties in the South China Sea in its entirety and look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea,” said a joint statement yesterday at the conclusion of Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s three-day visit.

On the issue of Palestine, the statement said that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Li expressed grave concern over the war in Gaza and the deteriorating humanitarian situation there.

“Both sides emphasised that civilians in Gaza must be protected in accordance with international law and urge for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian assistance, as well as protection of humanitarian relief and medical personnel,” it said.

The statement also said that Malaysia and China would seize opportunities provided by the signing of the Belt and Road Cooperation Plan, to further synergise strategies and enhance cooperation.

“The two sides will jointly decide and launch mutually agreed projects, data and talent chains, as well as further improve the quality of China-Malaysia cooperation,” it said.

The statement indicated China’s support for Malaysia in promoting the development of domestic transportation, ports and related logistics industries.

“Both sides agree to strengthen rail transportation and infrastructure cooperation and contribute to the realisation of the Pan-Asian Railway vision.”

The statement also said that both nations firmly support each other in matters regarding safeguarding national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and adhere to the principle of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs.

“Both sides reiterate the opposition to any form of terrorism and will strengthen cooperation on law enforcement, security and anti-terrorism, to jointly address cross-border crime and contribute to regional peace and stability.”

According to the statement, Malaysia and China have confirmed a joint effort to conduct a new round of research on panda protection.

“Both leaders expect to achieve progress in this field,” it said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/21/malaysia-china-agree-to-solve-regional-disputes-peacefully