Anwar meets Li Qiang, appreciates China’s support for Malaysia’s BRICS membership

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a bilateral meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Li Qiang, today to discuss matters of mutual interest between Malaysia and China since their last meeting in Putrajaya on June 19.

According to Bernama, during the meeting at The Grand Halls, Anwar expressed Malaysia’s “deep gratitude” to China for its strong support in backing Malaysia’s participation in BRICS, the new economic bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

“Everything is progressing smoothly, and we have expanded cooperation in all areas, including the economy, social affairs, education, broadcasting, military, and border protection,” said the Prime Minister.

Anwar also reflected on Li’s visit to Malaysia as a significant event, both for himself and for the Malaysian government, as it accelerated discussions on major investments and critical bilateral issues.

Anwar is currently on a working visit to China from November 4 to 7, which includes attending the 7th China International Import Expo, accompanied by a delegation of senior ministers, including Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, and Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim.

China has maintained its position as Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009, reflecting the strong economic cooperation between the two countries.