Chinese President Xi Jinping considered his country’s relations with Malaysia to be eternal during his symbolic speech to mark the end of his three-day visit.
In appreciation of the historic visit, about 200 Chinese nationals who are students in Malaysia gathered outside the hotel where Xi Jinping was staying to bid him farewell.
It was a fitting farewell that reflected the close relationship between the Malaysian and Chinese people, built on mutual respect and understanding.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that China remains Malaysia’s most important trading partner, especially given the current turmoil in the global trading system following the introduction of new US tariffs.
Xi also expressed confidence that Malaysia would achieve greater success under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Anwar Ibrahim.
He said Malaysia had made significant progress in modernisation and development since his last visit to the country 12 years ago.
The visit is part of the Chinese President's three-nation tour of Southeast Asia, covering Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia. It is the first in a series of state visits this year.
Malaysia and China established diplomatic relations on May 31, 1974, and celebrated the 50th anniversary of this achievement last year.
China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years since 2009.
By 2024, total trade between the two countries will be worth RM484.12 billion, accounting for 16.8 percent of Malaysia's global trade of RM2.88 trillion.
