Strengthening ASEAN-Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Link: Anwar's Visit in China Sparks Discussion on Enhanced Connections

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Kicks Off Four-Day Working Visit to China

Malaysia's Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has begun a four-day working visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit, which started on August 31, marks Anwar Ibrahim's fourth trip to China since taking office in November 2022.

Upon arrival at the Tianjin Binhai International Airport, Anwar Ibrahim was accorded a red-carpet welcome. He immediately headed to the SCO Summit's Gala Dinner, accompanied by his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

Anwar Ibrahim's visit to China is significant as it coincides with his attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. As the Chair of Asean, Anwar Ibrahim will deliver remarks at the SCO Plus Summit on Monday.

Malaysia's participation in the SCO Summit signifies its efforts to deepen Asean-SCO relations and position itself as a dynamic hub for trade and investment. In 2024, two-way trade between Malaysia and China was valued at RM484.12 billion, representing 16.8% of Malaysia's total global trade.

During his visit, Anwar Ibrahim will hold a series of business engagements with top Chinese investors and multinational companies. He is also scheduled to attend the Victory Day Parade in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, on September 3.

Anwar Ibrahim's high-level delegation includes Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

The details of the Chinese personalities that Anwar Ibrahim will meet during his visit are not yet clear. However, it is known that Li Qiang, the Premier of the People's Republic of China, will host a dinner reception in honor of Anwar Ibrahim at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years since 2009. Anwar Ibrahim will have a bilateral meeting with Premier Li Qiang on September 2 in Beijing.

In addition to his official engagements, Anwar Ibrahim will deliver a public lecture at Tianjin University during his visit. This is an opportunity for him to share insights and foster closer ties between Malaysia and China.

The visit is expected to strengthen the already robust relationship between Malaysia and China, paving the way for increased cooperation and mutual benefits in various sectors.

Strengthening ASEAN-Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Link: Anwar's Visit in China Sparks Discussion on Enhanced Connections