SHANGHAI: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed a profound sense of camaraderie and optimism after his recent bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
The prime minister, who met with Li yesterday during his four-day work trip to the republic, said the meeting further strengthened the relationship between both countries.
"Alhamdulillah, this meeting strengthened both my personal friendship with Li and the enduring partnership between Malaysia and China, bonds that will continue to bring benefits to our people," he said in a statement.
Anwar had said yesterday during the bilateral meeting that Malaysia and China stand as two great friends that are committed to strengthening their partnership and advancing the economic prosperity in the region.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Malaysia's deep appreciation for China's support across various areas, including Malaysia's participation in BRICS.
He also extended heartfelt congratulations to China on the successful hosting of the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), an important platform empowering hundreds of small and medium enterprises from around the world, including Malaysia, to expand their reach and growth.
"I also reaffirmed Malaysia's support for the community of shared future vision championed by President Xi Jinping, a principle that inspired Malaysia's participation in BRICS.
"I expressed my deepest appreciation to China for its steadfast support in endorsing Malaysia as a BRICS partner country.
"In the context of Malaysia-China cooperation, I highlighted Malaysia's openness to deepening strategic partnerships and welcoming greater investments in high-quality technology, digital economy initiatives, education, and other skill-intensive sectors."
Anwar added that boosting bilateral trade, particularly in halal products and agri-commodities, while fostering strong exchanges in research, development and technical expertise was also touched on during the meeting.
"I emphasised our shared priorities, especially in eliminating poverty, uplifting living standards, and promoting sustainable development.
"Malaysia stands ready to learn from China's successes in these areas through partnerships with the China International Development Cooperation Agency and the International Poverty Reduction Centre."
The meeting, held on the second day of Anwar's working trip to China, lasted for 30 minutes.
Both leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern and interest.
Present during the meeting were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
During the meeting, several memoranda of understanding (MoU) were exchanged, including an MoU on cooperation between Bernama and China Media Group.