KUALA LUMPUR, 13 FEB – China acknowledged Malaysia’s role and the importance of Asean in building a better future for the region.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said that Malaysia embarked on its next chapter with confidence and unwavering optimism that the future held even greater possibilities for synergistic collaboration and prosperity with China.
“Malaysia looks forward to more constructive engagements with China, whether in promoting relations or in terms of people-to-people connection, a common element since establishing diplomatic relations on May 31, 1974.
“Since then, ties between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing have continued to flourish, reflecting the enduring friendship and mutual respect which have blossomed over the years,” he said at a reception to celebrate ‘Chinese New Year 2024’ at the Shangri-la Hotel in Jalan Sultan Ismail.
The event was hosted by China’s Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing who joined Fadillah to launch a special logo to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.
The logo showcased the number ‘50’ to signify the 50 years of bilateral relations between the two nations, and was inspired by Malaysia’s batik painting.
It is set against background colours of red and blue with yellow and white lines, incorporating graphics depicting China’s famous Great Wall, the Giant Panda, Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Tower and the national flower Bunga Raya.
Fadillah said the logo symbolised the close and strong relations between the two countries and was a joint effort of Wisma Putra, the Chinese Embassy and the Malaysia-China Friendship Association.
Fadillah, who lauded the flourishing ties between the two countries, highlighted how a series of programmes and activities had been lined up by both sides, including exchanges of high-level visits, issuance of commemorative stamps, business forums and cultural performances.
He assured that Malaysia-China relations would further expand as Beijing hoped to deepen strategic development, high-quality construction of the ‘Belt and Road’ programmes, cooperation in emerging industries of strategic economy, green development and intelligent manufacturing.
Meanwhile, Ouyang stressed that China acknowledged the importance of Asean and Malaysia’s role, which would continue on a positive trajectory as both countries celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.
“The Chinese dragon and Malayan tiger will hold hands tighter and progress faster on the way to building a better future of the China-Malaysia community with a shared future,” Ouyang said.
He added that although it was becoming harder to manage the ebb and flow of the world economy, the robustness of the Malaysia-China trade had reached 1.3 trillion yuan (about RM852 billion) last year.
“Malaysia also became the largest trading partner with China for the 15th consecutive year.
“In terms of regional and world affairs, China will keep contributing positively towards a more stable and secure international climate.
“Upholding the Asian values of unity and collaboration, China is willing and ready to work with Malaysia and other Asean countries in building Asia into a peaceful, prosperous and amicable home for all,” said Ouyang.
He emphasised how recent developments saw China had been consistent in advocating resolving conflicts through peaceful means.
“For China, the Saudi Arabia-Iran reconciliation was a major victory of the Chinese way of settling hotspot issues.
“China will unequivocally continue to defend multilateralism, safeguard the common interests of regional countries, and make greater contributions to the betterment of the global governance system,” Ouyang said.
The reception saw the song ‘Sayang Sayang, My Dear Friend’ rendered to mark the golden jubilee celebration. – airtimes.my
