Kuala Lumpur, September 18, 2024, The Europe Today – His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, will embark on a state visit to China from September 19 to 22, 2024, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. This will mark His Majesty’s first official visit to China since ascending the throne on January 31, 2024, highlighting the strong and growing ties between the two nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra) emphasized that the visit symbolizes the robust bilateral relations between Malaysia and China, which have flourished since the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013.
His Majesty will be accompanied by several senior Malaysian officials, including Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zain, as well as representatives from Istana Negara and other relevant ministries and agencies.
During the visit, Sultan Ibrahim will receive a ceremonial welcome at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, followed by an audience with President Xi. A state banquet will be held in honor of His Majesty. Additionally, His Majesty will grant an audience to Premier Li Qiang.
Among the key engagements, His Majesty is scheduled to attend a naming ceremony at Beijing Foreign Studies University for the Chair of Malay Studies, established in his honor. His Majesty will also meet with members of the Malaysian diaspora during the trip.
Wisma Putra expressed that the visit serves as a reaffirmation of the shared commitment between Malaysia and China to foster forward-looking, dynamic, and prosperous relations for the benefit of both nations. This year’s visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, marked by various high-level exchanges and celebratory events, including the issuance of commemorative stamps, coins, and the publication of a coffee table book in June 2024.
China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner, holding the position for 15 consecutive years. In 2023, bilateral trade totaled RM450.84 billion (US$98.90 billion), contributing 17.1% of Malaysia’s global trade. Trade between the two nations continues to grow, with the first half of 2024 recording RM234.09 billion (US$49.53 billion) in trade, compared to RM214.87 billion (US$48.21 billion) during the same period in 2023.
In the first quarter of 2024, 24 manufacturing projects were approved with Chinese investments amounting to RM3.4 billion (US$717.7 million), further strengthening the economic ties between the two countries.
