Shanghai: China and Malaysia’s premiers have pledged to intensify their bilateral relations, focusing on mutual support for each other’s core interests and significant issues, as reported by state-run media on Wednesday. The leaders convened in Shanghai, where Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim participated in the inauguration of the six-day China International Import Expo on Tuesday.
According to Anadolu Agency, during the discussions, Premier Li Qiang expressed Beijing’s strong backing for Malaysia’s upcoming role as the rotating president of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. Li emphasized China’s willingness to continue mutual support on core interests and major concerns, align development strategies, and enhance governance experience. He also highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation across various fields and advancing the modernization efforts of both nations through high-level strategic collaboration.
Prime Minister Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to ut
ilizing its ASEAN presidency to bolster coordination with China on international and regional matters. He expressed Malaysia’s eagerness to enhance bilateral trade, particularly in halal products and agri-commodities, and to strengthen exchanges in research, development, and technical expertise. In a statement on Facebook, Anwar also congratulated Li on the successful hosting of the China International Import Expo, underscoring Malaysia’s openness to deepening strategic partnerships and attracting investments in technology, the digital economy, education, and skill-intensive sectors.