BEIJING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has paid a courtesy call on China's President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People here on Friday (March 31).
The two leaders then proceeded to a meeting that lasted for about 45 minutes.
This was the first face-to-face meeting between the two.
Anwar pays a courtesy call on Xi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on March 31, 2023. – SADIQ ASYRAF/Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia
In his brief welcoming remarks, Xi said he appreciated the fact that despite observing the holy month of Ramadan, the Malaysian Prime Minister had accepted his invitation to visit China.
Xi said he also took note of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between both nations this year and the 50th anniversary of the Malaysia-China diplomatic relationship next year.
Hence, he said it is hoped that under Anwar's leadership, Malaysia and China will work more closely together to bring the relationship to greater heights.
Xi said both countries have also agreed to build a China-Malaysia community with a shared future.
"This bilateral relationship is a new historical starting point," he said.
Meanwhile, Anwar in his introductory remarks said the Government and the people of Malaysia highly value the existing relationship with China.
"I can't express how glad I am to be here. My visit here is also being monitored closely with much affection by many Malaysians," he said.
The Prime Minister also expressed his respect for Xi, for his visionary leadership, ideas and efforts in reforming China and bringing the country up to greater heights.
"You are a visionary, you are a statesman, you talk about security, economics and civilisations.
"On a personal level, President Xi, you have not only changed the course of China but also given a ray of hope to the world and mankind, with the visions that extend beyond China, into the region and the world," Anwar said. – Bernama
