PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim refers to Chinese President Xi Jinping as a true friend of Malaysia.

He also said Xi is “a friend and partner of our country, and an important leader in establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership with us.”

Anwar said this in his welcoming speech at the Prime Minister’s official residence on Wednesday.

During his last visit to China, Anwar had said Xi represents a new kind of leadership, one that discusses growth, investment, economic development, and poverty reduction – and that Xi has proven to be successful.

“More importantly, he has realised common prosperity and a civilised society — something few modern world leaders have been able to achieve.”

He added that Xi Jinping is not only a great president, but also a true friend.

“We will collaborate in all areas, including economy, trade, investment, and of course new technologies such as artificial intelligence, as well as all the related initiatives we have discussed over the years.”

At the end of his speech, Anwar uttered “thank you” in Mandarin, and expressed his gratitude to Xi’s leadership and friendship.

Sin Chew Daily is the only Chinese media allowed to cover the opening remarks of a bilateral meeting between Anwar and Xi.