Xi Jinping begins state visit to Malaysia, seeks stronger ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting Malaysia as part of a regional diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening ties amid heightened US tariffs impacting the region. During his three-day state visit, Xi emphasized the desire to usher in another '50 golden years' of China-Malaysia relations, highlighting deepening friendship, political trust, and mutual cooperation. He met with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss enhancing collaboration in areas such as modernization and artificial intelligence, as well as regional and international issues. The visit follows the celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries, with both leaders expressing intentions to build on this milestone and promote a shared future. Observers see the trip as an effort to realign regional alliances and reinforce China's influence in Southeast Asia amid the shifting economic landscape created by US trade policies. Malaysia, currently chairing ASEAN, is seen as a pivotal partner for China in advancing mutual interests and regional stability.