CHINESE Ambassador to Malaysia Bai Tian called on Dr Mahathir Mohamad in Putrajaya today, congratulating the prime minister on taking office a second time.

Bai, in a statement, said Dr Mahathir’s first tour as prime minister, from 1981 to 2003, covered half of the 44 years since the two nations established diplomatic ties.

“During your last service as prime minister, you visited China seven times, and your important contributions to China-Malaysia relations laid a solid foundation for the comprehensive and profound China-Malaysia relations we enjoy today.

“We appreciate that you openly reiterated your support for the Belt and Road Initiative and welcomed Chinese investments shortly after assuming office.

“China has always regarded Malaysia as an important partner in the 21st-century Maritime Silk Road initiative, and is ready to promote the Belt and Road Initiative together with Malaysia, striving for the common prosperity and development of the two countries, and the building of an Asian Community of Common Destiny.”

He added that China believes that relations with Malaysia, with its new Pakatan Harapan government, will scale new heights.

Dr Mahathir said Malaysia welcomes Chinese investments, and that Beijing has always been an ally and important development partner.

“The new government will enhance all-round cooperation with China, especially in the fields of politics, economy and trade.” – May 24, 2018.