Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets Malaysian prime minister: Xinhua

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets Malaysian prime minister: Xinhua

KUALA LUMPUR, May 26, 2025 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang is in Malaysia to attend the inaugural Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit, scheduled for May 27. This historic meeting is part of a series of high-level engagements aimed at fostering deeper cooperation between Asean, the GCC, and China.

Li Qiang's visit follows a state visit to Indonesia from May 24 to 26 at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The Chinese premier will be in Malaysia from May 26 to 28, with the trilateral summit taking place on May 27, immediately following the Asean Summit. Malaysia is hosting both meetings, which aim to enhance cooperation in key sectors between the three entities.

According to China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, the summit will not only strengthen ties but also advance joint development projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Mao highlighted that Asean and GCC countries are significant members of the emerging market economies in Asia and the Global South [1].

The visit underscores Malaysia's role as the rotating chair of Asean and its strategic importance in the region. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has invited Li Qiang to attend the summit, marking a significant step in Malaysia's efforts to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with China and the GCC.

The summit is expected to yield concrete outcomes, including agreements on trade, investment, and infrastructure development. The meeting is also seen as an opportunity to address common challenges such as climate change, regional security, and economic growth.

This development is particularly notable for investors and financial professionals, as it signals a potential boost in trade and investment opportunities between the three blocs. The Belt and Road Initiative, in particular, is likely to gain further momentum, offering new investment prospects in infrastructure and other sectors.

References:
[1] https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/05/22/chinese-premier-li-qiang-to-attend-asean-gcc-summit-in-malaysia