KUALA LUMPUR: Strengthening trade and investment cooperation is the focus of discussion between Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and leaders from China, Singapore and Cambodia on the sidelines of the 46th Asean Summit.
The Prime Minister’s packed schedule at the summit yesterday included bilateral meetings with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
On his meeting with Li, Anwar said Malaysia and China agreed to deepen strategic cooperation through the Asean-GCC-China Summit.
He said discussions with the Chinese Premier also focused on key sectors such as the economy, halal industry, trade, transport – especially the East Coast Rail Link, green energy and artificial intelligence.
“I expressed gratitude for China’s support in our modernisation efforts, highlighting the solidarity of the Global South,” he added.
He said the cooperation would benefit not only Malaysia and China but also the wider Asean region by driving economic growth.
On his discussion with Wong, Anwar said Malaysia and Singapore have agreed to further strengthen cooperation in investment and trade with a focus on key bilateral projects.
“Prime Minister Lawrence and I expressed our commitment to further enhance cooperation in investment and trade, apart from focusing on key projects, such as the JS-SEZ and the RTS Link,” he said in a statement.
The Prime Minister said he and Wong also agreed to expand cooperation in the areas of digital economy, sustainable energy and the Asean Power Grid.
“Malaysia and Singapore also agreed to resolve bilateral issues constructively for the mutual benefit of both nations and to maintain long-term harmonious relations,” he added, Bernama reported.
Anwar said he and Hun Manet raised matters pertaining to investment and cybersecurity, as well as on the need for both countries to enhance relations for mutual benefit and shared prosperity.
“The scope of cooperation covers investment and trade, the halal industry, cybersecurity, Islamic banking, energy, defence, tourism, agriculture and education.
“This close cooperation reflects the strong commitment of both countries.
“We will have to play an active role in shaping a peaceful, stable and prosperous region,” he said.
