China-Malaysia Visa-free Deal Marks Milestone In Bilateral Ties
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (right) with Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) witnessing the exchange of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the Government of Malaysia and the Government of China, represented by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (second, right) and China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (second, left) at Seri Perdana Complex on April 16, 2025. --fotoBERNAMA (2025) COPYRIGHT RESERVED
By Linda Khoo
KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- The mutual visa exemption agreement between China and Malaysia, inked during Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent state visit, marks a significant milestone in deepening bilateral relations.
Universiti Malaya political analyst Associate Professor Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi described the agreement as a strategic move that facilitates seamless people-to-people exchanges and lays a strong foundation for closer ties between the two countries.
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He said the visa-free arrangement also promotes broader cooperation, reinforcing the Malaysia-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and carrying positive implications for regional cooperation and development.
Increased mobility, he added, is expected to spur Chinese investment in high-growth sectors throughout Malaysia.
'The agreement paves the way for joint cultural initiatives, such as the collaborative nomination of the lion dance for UNESCO recognition.
'By strengthening bilateral ties, the agreement also contributes to regional stability and ASEAN cooperation, aligning with both countries' commitment to multilateralism,' he told Bernama.
Awang Azman said the mutual visa exemption underscores the robust and evolving relationship between China and Malaysia.
'It aligns with the vision of building a high-level strategic community with a shared future, emphasising mutual respect and cooperation.
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