KUALA LUMPUR: Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed optimism for a new era of China-Malaysia relations, calling for another “50 golden years” of partnership as he commenced a three-day state visit to Malaysia on Monday — his first in 12 years.
In a statement released upon his arrival, Xi said his visit — made at the invitation of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar — is aimed at strengthening friendship, political trust, and collaboration between the two nations.
“I look forward to having in-depth exchanges of views with His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on our bilateral relationship, as well as international and regional issues of mutual concern,” Xi said.
Highlighting the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries, Xi noted that China and Malaysia have built a model of mutual respect and equal partnership since establishing diplomatic relations on 31 May 1974.
“For over half a century, our countries have respected one another, treated each other as equals, and fostered mutually beneficial cooperation — setting a fine example for international relations,” he said.
As key members of the Global South and major developing economies, Xi added that deeper strategic cooperation would serve the interests of both nations and contribute to regional and global peace and prosperity.
“Together, we will open a new chapter in our good neighbourly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation — ushering in another 50 golden years of China-Malaysia ties,” he said.
The visit comes just a year after both countries commemorated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Xi last visited Malaysia in 2013.
