Hope For New Milestone In Malaysia/China Relations In Year Of Dragon

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin hopes that the close bilateral relations between Malaysia and China will be further strengthened. He said since Malaysia and China estalished diplomatic relations in 1974, both countries had enjoyed good bilateral relations in the fields of political, business and trade ties. "I hope this year, Chinese New Year will mark a new milestone in bilateral relations between Malaysia and China," he said in an interview with XinHua News Agency and CCTV (China TV) at the Lunar New Year 2012 festival, here Thursday night. Muhyiddin (centre) also took the opportunity to wish 'Happy Chinese New Year' to all the Chinese community in China. Upon arrival, Muhyiddin was greeted with Chinese traditional lion and dragon dance. MCA president Chua Soi Lek (second row from left), Umno Secretary-General Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor (second from left) and Chai Xi's wife Zhang Rufen (third from right) were present. Earlier in his speech, the Ambassador of China to Malaysia Chai Xi (third from left) said within Asean countries, Malaysia remained the biggest trading partner of China for four consecutive years. He said the year of the Dragon this year had a special significance in the Chinese culture, symbolizing innovation, strength, confidence and success. "I have confidence that with the vigorous spirit of the Dragon and the efforts of both sides, China-Malaysia relations will definitely achieve greater success in the years ahead," he said. (photoBERNAMA) MALAYSIA