Chinese Premier Li Qiang stated on Tuesday that China and Malaysia should deepen the alignment of their development strategies, explore cooperation potential in emerging areas, and expand new avenues for collaboration. 

He made the remarks during a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who was in Shanghai for the 7th China International Import Expo.

Li emphasized that China-Malaysia relations have entered a new stage and China is ready to work with Malaysia to implement the key agreements reached by their leaders. He underscored the importance of mutual respect, trust and equality in their partnership, aiming for win-win cooperation to promote shared development and prosperity.

Li also reiterated China's commitment to supporting Malaysia on issues of core interests and major concerns. He proposed strengthening the alignment of development strategies, sharing governance experiences, and enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors. He stressed the importance of high-level strategic cooperation to drive modernization in both countries.

Li urged both sides to continue advancing flagship projects, such as the East Coast Rail Link and the Malaysia-China "Two Countries, Twin Parks," while tapping into new opportunities in emerging fields. He also highlighted the need to expand cooperation in cultural exchanges, education, and visa facilitation to foster greater mutual understanding, especially among youth.

China will strongly support Malaysia in its upcoming role as the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year, Li added. China is also ready to enhance cooperation within regional and multilateral frameworks, such as China-ASEAN, to promote economic integration and safeguard the peaceful development of Asia.

Anwar, in turn, reaffirmed Malaysia's strong ties with China, describing it as a key partner. He expressed Malaysia's willingness to deepen Belt and Road cooperation with China, expand collaboration in trade, investment, digital economy, and education, and promote people-to-people exchanges. He also voiced Malaysia's support for China's entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

As ASEAN's rotating chair next year, Anwar stated that Malaysia aims to use this opportunity to enhance coordination with China on both international and regional issues.

(With input from Xinhua)