SHANGHAI: Malaysia and China stand as two great friends that are committed to strengthening their partnership and advancing the economic prosperity in the region, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.   

In his keynote address during a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang today, Anwar expressed Malaysia's deep appreciation for China's support across various areas, including Malaysia's participation in BRICS.   

"I think things are going exceptionally well. We have expanded into all areas, including cooperation in the economy, education, technical and vocational training (TVET), military understanding and cooperation in protecting our borders.    

"We are now two great friends and I look forward to when I assume the chairmanship of Asean, where we should work together for Asean-China (relations) and help grow the Asean economy," he said.    

Anwar also thanked Li for his visit to Malaysia in June to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.    

He added that since the visit, discussions on several issues and major investments have progressed at an accelerated pace.   

"You spent so much time exchanging ideas with the Malaysian business community, the public and academics.   

"And for weeks, the media will be covering that you can become a threat to the Malaysian Prime Minister," he jokingly said.    

The bilateral meeting, held on the second day of Anwar's working trip to China, lasted for 30 minutes.

Both leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern and interest.   

Present during the meeting were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.    

During the meeting, several memoranda of understanding (MoU) were exchanged, including an MoU on cooperation between the Malaysian National News Agency and China Media Group.   

Li's visit to Malaysia in June marked a significant step forward in bilateral relations and commemorated the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties.

It was his first visit to Malaysia since taking office in March last year, an event analysts say will elevate the comprehensive strategic relationship between the two nations to new heights.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/1130119/china-malaysia-are-two-great-friends-says-anwar