Malaysian PM in China: President Xi Jinping meets Mahathir in Beijing

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01:39

We begin in Beijing, where Chinese President Xi Jinping has met the visiting Malaysian prime minister, Mahathir Mohamad. They discussed regional development as well as ways to advance their bilateral relationship. Both promised to increase communication and cooperation under China's massive international development project, the Belt & Road Initiative. RORY COEN has more.

A preserved friendship and deepened cooperation. That's what President Xi emphasized during his meeting with Mahathir Mohamad.

President Xi said, as rising forces in Asia, they should firmly oppose unilateralism and protectionism, and they could go on to achieve win-win results on the basis of mutual respect.

He referred to Malaysia as an important country on the ancient Maritime Silk Road, and that he appreciated Mahathir's support for the Belt and Road Initiative. He also urged Malaysia to work with other countries involved in the huge development project.

Mahathir, meanwhile, said his visit was an important step for his new government, and outlined Malaysia's intention to maintain those friendly relations with its biggest trade partner.

The Malaysian prime minister praised China's economic achievements, adding that their bilateral cooperation was aiding his country's development. He cited the Belt & Road initiative in particular as a way which was driving regional development and prosperity. He also said both countries should stick to their Asian values and their own respective paths of development.

RORY COEN, CGTN.