China looks to the next chapter in bilateral ties

KUALA LUMPUR: The bilateral relations between China and Malaysia are “young and active”, says the Chinese embassy’s minister counsellor Chen Chen.

Noting that the governments of both countries would be hosting activities to celebrate 45 years of friendship this year, Chen said: “A 45-year relationship with a human being is considered a long one as it takes up half a lifetime. But 45 years (of bilateral relations) between two countries is very short.”

He believes that the China-Malaysia relations will grow stronger after Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s visit to China at the end of this month.

“Dr Mahathir will attend the One Belt, One Road forum. I believe his visit will be meaningful and play an important role for China and Malaysia’s bilateral ties,” said Chen.

He added that maintaining diplomatic ties was similar to maintaining friendships.

“Countries are like friends. We need to help each other. But we should get to know one another before we come to love each other,” he said during the Belt and Road Initiative Book Programme launch at Putra World Trade Centre here yesterday.

Officiated by Deputy Education Minister Teo Nie Ching, the programme introduced 15 books from China about its culture, history, language, art and literature, among others.

The books were translated and published by China’s most wellknown publishing house, Zhejiang Publishing United Group, and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.

Chen said the launch – organised by Han Culture Centre Sdn Bhd – was part of China and Malaysia’s 45th anniversary celebration.

“Books are an excellent medium to pull relationships closer together. I believe Malaysians will further understand China through these books and hope the people of both countries can live in harmony,” said Chen.