China envoy: Stronger bilateral ties under Dr M

PUTRAJAYA: Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Bai Tian says China-Malaysia relations will further improve with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s second term in office.

He called on the Prime Minister at the Perdana Leadership Foundation here, describing Dr Mahathir as a well-respected and long-term friend of the Chinese people.

Bai, in a statement, said Dr Mahathir had previously laid a solid foundation for China-Malaysia relations, including initiating the China-Asean cooperation.

He said China looked forward to working with the new Malaysian Government to advance cooperation in the spirit of equality, mutual trust and mutual benefits.

“We appreciate that you openly reiterated your support for the Belt and Road initiative and welcomed Chinese investment shortly after assuming office.

“China always regards Malaysia as an important partner for the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and is ready to promote the Belt and Road initiative with Malaysia, striving for the common prosperity and development of the two countries and the building of an Asian Community of Common Destiny,” Bai added.

He said both countries were standing at a historical juncture, blessed with huge potential and bright prospects.

This is also the inherent essence of President Xi Jinping’s idea of building a community of shared future for mankind, which echoes well with the Asian values Dr Mahathir has consistently promoted.

Dr Mahathir said China had always been a close friend and important partner of Malaysia.

“The new Government of Malaysia will further enhance the allround cooperation with China, especially in the political, economic and trade fields,” he said.

He said in recent years, China had achieved phenomenal success in economic development, infrastructure building including rail systems, technological advancement in areas such as agriculture production.

“Malaysia can learn from China and share the good practices and experiences of economic and technological development.

“Malaysia welcomes Chinese investment and expects further growth of bilateral pragmatic cooperation,” he added.

Bai also invited Dr Mahathir to visit China again.

Token of friendship: Bai presenting a fan inscribed with the Chinese proverb ‘lao ma shi tu’ (old horse leads the way) to Dr Mahathir at his office in Putrajaya. Lao Ma is the Chinese moniker for Dr Mahathir.