Malaysia and China extend visa-free travel agreement to enhance bilateral ties

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia and China have mutually agreed to extend the visa exemption programme for visitors from both countries to enhance bilateral ties.

In a joint statement on Thursday (June 20) at the conclusion of Chinese Premier Li Qiang three-day official visit, both countries stated that China had agreed to extend its visa exemption facility for Malaysian citizens until the end of 2025 while Malaysia will extend the visa exemption for Chinese citizens until the end of 2026.

“Both leaders (Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and China’s Premier Li Qiang) welcome the keen interest to continue consultations and discussions on mutual visa exemption to facilitate the entry of the citizens of Malaysia and China,” it said.

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The statement stated that both sides also agreed to enhance education cooperation to a new level and strengthen cooperation on vocational education, joint scientific research and digital education.

Both countries also agreed to jointly set up institutes for advanced study, enhance interactions between think tanks and higher educational institutions, promote mutual visits between teachers and students and improve cultural exchanges and mutual learning.

The joint statement for both countries emphasised the commitment to deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership, moving towards a China-Malaysia community with a shared future.