RIYADH: The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia to Saudi Arabia, which concluded Thursday (Nov 6), marks a new chapter of enduring friendship, mutual respect and shared commitment between both nations.
This historic visit underscores the deep spiritual ties and growing cooperation between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia which remain united by faith and a shared vision for peace, prosperity and regional development.
The visit also reflects the continued commitment of both countries to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in various sectors, including economy, geopolitics, defence and Islamic affairs.
This was Sultan Ibrahim's fifth state visit since ascending the throne, following his visits to Singapore, China, Brunei and Russia.
During the four-day visit, Sultan Ibrahim was accorded a state welcoming ceremony at the Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
His Majesty also held a meeting with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, during which both leaders exchanged views on a wide range of matters of mutual interest.
Sultan Ibrahim said that the discussion at Al-Yamamah Palace took place in a warm and cordial atmosphere and touched on various matters of mutual interest to both nations.
"This is our first meeting, and Prince Mohammed is very knowledgeable about the various matters that were discussed. I also shared some of my views, especially regarding the importance of consistent policy implementation in the government and in international relations.
"Consistent policy will bring stability to bilateral relations and provide confidence to attract investment to a country," said His Majesty who also visited the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and the headquarters of Arabian Oud in Riyadh.
The visit is significant as it marks the first state visit by a Malaysian King to Saudi Arabia since the late Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mu'adzam Shah's visit in 1984.
In the first 10 months of this year, a total of 12 high-profile visits have taken place between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is Malaysia's 14th largest trading partner, with total trade valued at RM44.74bil (US$9.79bil). - Bernama
