HANGZHOU: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, on Thursday (Sept 24), extended his greetings for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival to Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the Chinese delegation, while describing Malaysia-China ties as having moved beyond conventional diplomatic relations.
With the festival to be celebrated Friday (Sept 25), the Prime Minister conveyed his greetings of "中秋节快乐" (Happy Mid-Autumn Festival) to Li and the Chinese delegation, while expressing his appreciation to the Chinese Government for its warm hospitality during his working visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou.
"As a result, the close relations between Malaysia and China today have transcended the framework of conventional diplomacy.
"It is driven by trust, sincerity and mutual confidence, thereby deepening genuine friendship to bring greater prosperity and benefits to the people of both countries," Anwar said in a social media post.
Anwar, who was on a three-day working visit at the invitation of the Chinese Government to attend the 48th WorldSkills Competition Shanghai 2026 and the Fifth Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, departed for Malaysia Thursday.
On the final day of his packed programme, Anwar held bilateral talks with Li Qiang to further strengthen Malaysia-China strategic relations and cooperation.
"Premier Li Qiang and I then led our respective delegations to the West Lake State Guest House in Hangzhou, which is also the Premier's hometown.
"The Malaysia-China bilateral meeting and official luncheon were held in the historic building, surrounded by beautiful classical Chinese landscapes, in a very warm and cordial atmosphere," Anwar said.
He also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Chinese Government for its assistance and cooperation in supporting and providing consular assistance to Malaysians affected by the recent disaster in Tibet, while conveying his condolences over the tragedy.
Anwar said discussions between the two delegations focused on their shared commitment to pursuing new cooperation in high-impact trade and investment, while strengthening and consolidating cooperation in sectors where ties were already well established.
The discussions also covered various strategic issues of mutual interest, including artificial intelligence (AI) development, progress on the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), the potential of the semiconductor industry and cooperation with China Exim Bank. - Bernama
