KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the importance of stronger ties with China, saying it is vital in securing the long-term interests of Malaysia and its people.
"We believe that it is in Malaysia's strategic interests to forge amity and cooperation with China, not against it.
"We make every effort to diplomatically engage China and integrate it into regional affairs, not because it is always straightforward, but because it is crucial for our shared future," he said in a speech at a dinner celebrating 50 years of Malaysia-China ties.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who is in the country on a three-day official visit was present at the dinner.
In his speech, Anwar paid tribute to past leaders of both countries for taking the bold step to establish diplomatic ties in 1974.
"At the time, it took immense courage and wisdom from the leaders on both sides to make a leap of faith and forge a new relationship across what was once an impenetrable ideological wall.
"Their actions demonstrate that the future is not claimed by those who dwell in the past or fear the unknown. It is the bold dreamers and the brave souls who dare to strive that shape the world, and make it their own."
"Our bilateral partnership has blossomed from the seat of political power to the bustling economic markets to the hallowed halls of academia and beyond."
Anwar said Malaysia's "firm and robust" trade relationship with China is underscored by the fact the republic has been the country's largest trading partner for the past 15 years.
He also said China's Belt and Road Initiative, as well as the "Two Countries, Twin Parks", East Coast Rail Link and Automotive High-Tech Valley projects will boost the economy, drive growth and help create jobs.
Anwar said Malaysia views its relationship with China through a comprehensive strategic lens.
"To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Malaysia-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last year, I had the opportunity to embark on several visits to China.
"I had a historic meeting with President Xi Jinping as well as Premier Li Qiang in Beijing."
The visits, he said, led to stronger and more advanced bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, education, agriculture, tourism, food security, and the digital economy.
"I call on all Malaysians, as well as our counterparts in China, to summon the courage and wisdom that have fortified our ties from the very beginning and forge a new era of ties between our two nations."
