KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed his appreciation to outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, for his commitment and contribution towards strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

Anwar conveyed his appreciation when he received a farewell call from Ouyang today.

He said Malaysia and China had built strong ties across various sectors, including the economy, technology, education and culture.

Strategic cooperation in areas such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), 5G technology, artificial intelligence, ports and the rare earths industry had also opened up new opportunities for mutual benefit, he said.

“Both countries will continue to strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between us, while exploring new areas for the benefit of our people and the peace and prosperity of the region,” Anwar said in a Facebook post.

During the meeting, Anwar said he also received a special gift from Chinese Premier Li Qiang —  a book about Hangzhou, which he recently visited and which is Li’s hometown.

“I deeply appreciate the thought and gesture,” he said.

Anwar undertook a three-day working visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou from September 22 at Li’s invitation.

The visit focused on two main engagements — the WorldSkills competition in Shanghai and the Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou. — Bernama