Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a three-nation Southeast Asian trip, including Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. In Kuala Lumpur, he called on Asian nations to resist confrontation and protectionism, urging unity against geopolitical challenges.
Xi’s comments come amid deteriorating US-China relations. The US has imposed tariffs on countries worldwide, with China facing 145% duties. Beijing is expanding its circle of trading partners, including Malaysia, which remains the country’s largest trading partner.
Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said China will remain a significant ally during global upheaval. Xi urged Malaysian and other countries to resist supply chain disruptions and excessive tariffs through openness and cooperation.
The two nations signed 31 agreements on trade, tourism, railway transportation, and agriculture. China also welcomed high-quality Malaysian agricultural products into its market. Beijing’s Belt and Road initiative is expected to expand across Southeast Asia.
Xi’s trip aims to strengthen ties with Malaysia and other regional neighbors amid US-China tensions.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinas-xi-calls-un-multilateral-systems-be-upheld-southeast-asia-trip-2025-04-16