Wed Sep 18 03:14:00 UTC 2024: ## Malaysian King Embarks on State Visit to China, Cementing Bilateral Ties
**BEIJING** – Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, will embark on a state visit to China from September 19 to 22, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. This marks His Majesty’s first state visit to China since ascending the throne in January 2024, highlighting the strong and growing bilateral relationship between the two countries.
The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, a milestone celebrated with commemorative stamps, coins, and a special coffee table book.
During his visit, His Majesty will be accorded 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 His Majesty’s honor, and he is also scheduled to meet with Premier Li Qiang.
The King will participate in the naming ceremony of the Chair of Malay Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, named in his honor, and engage with the Malaysian diaspora.
“This visit provides an excellent opportunity for both sides to reaffirm a shared commitment to ensuring that Malaysia-China relations continue to remain forward-looking, dynamic, and prosperous for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries based on mutual respect and trust,” said Wisma Putra in a statement.
The strong economic relationship between Malaysia and China is evident in their robust trade figures. China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with trade reaching RM450.84 billion (US$98.90 billion) in 2023. The first half of 2024 saw continued growth in trade, reaching RM234.09 billion (US$49.53 billion).
The King will be accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zain, and senior officials from Istana Negara and relevant ministries and agencies.
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