31 MOUs inked in ‘new golden era'
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China have signed 31 memoranda of understanding (MOUs), notes and cooperation agreements with the highlight being a mutual visa exemption for travellers between the two countries.
Currently, Malaysians can travel to China visa-free until Dec 31 this year, while Chinese nationals enjoy visa-free travel to Malaysia until Dec 31 next year.
The exemption was in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.
Other strategic areas of cooperation include security, development, trade, transport, agriculture, education and digital technology.
The exchange of documents, which took place at the Seri Perdana Complex yesterday, was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Among the key agreements signed with ministries and agencies is one concerning giant pandas, comprising an MOU on the Cooperative Research Agreement for the International Conservation of Giant Pandas.
Strategic talks: Anwar and Xi with their delegates during a bilateral meeting at the Seri Perdana Complex in Putrajaya. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
Additionally, under the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, three MOUs were signed, including one aimed at upgrading the China-Malaysia 'Two Countries, Twin Parks' initiative.
Also, three MOUs were inked under the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, including tourism and media cooperation between Xinhua News Agency from China and Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board.
There was also an exchange of notes between China and Malaysia on the establishment of a joint foreign and defence dialogue.
Under the Transport Ministry, Malaysia and China signed an MOU between the National Railway Administration of China and the Transport Ministry to strengthen cooperation in the railway sector.
Meanwhile, the Digital Ministry and China's National Development and Reform Commission inked an MOU on the digital economy, while the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of intellectual property.
Several MOUs were also signed with media groups and universities, including one on bilateral cooperation between China's People's Daily and Star Media Group Bhd.
At the start of a bilateral meeting, Anwar remarked that Malaysia remains committed to working together with China in various areas, including economy, trade, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The Prime Minister stated that China is not only a close neighbour but also an important partner through the comprehensive strategic partnership, which reflects the deep trust and long-standing cooperation between the two nations.
Toasting ties: Anwar and Xi attending the official dinner in honour of the Chinese President at the Seri Perdana Complex. — Bernama
Recalling his previous visit to China, Anwar said: 'As I have said to you when we met in China, President Xi exemplifies a new type of persona, a leader who talks about growth and investment and economic advancement.
'He also talks about eliminating poverty and has proven his success, more importantly about shared prosperity and civilisation, which is hardly expressed by any modern leader in this world.
'We admire your tenacity and for that Malaysians welcome you, President Xi, not only as president of a great country, the President of China, but as a true friend.'
In his remarks, Xi announced a bold and shared vision for the future of China-Malaysia relations, pledging to elevate the partnership to unprecedented strategic heights.
He said both countries are committed to forging an even stronger bond, promising mutual benefits and enhanced regional prosperity.
'This marks my return to Malaysia after 12 years, during which the nation has achieved remarkable progress in its development.
'Your Madani government is steadily becoming a promising reality, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations,' he said.
Xi recalled the pivotal establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia over five decades ago, which defied the tensions of the Cold War.
He also highlighted the solidarity exhibited by both nations during the Covid-19 pandemic.
'Today, our two countries are working in unity to jointly build a community with a shared future. China-Malaysia relations are now entering a new golden era,' he said.
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