Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday that the Malaysian government would continue to attach high priority and provide strong support to the efforts that promote friendly relations between China and the ASEAN.

Muhyiddin made this remark at the Gala Dinner in commemoration of the 35th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations here.

"The acceleration of cooperation between the ASEAN and China has helped improve the socio-economic development and prosperity for both sides. Through functional cooperation we can further deepen our understanding and trust which are essential elements for the maintenance of peace and stability in the region," said Muhyiddin.

Muhyiddin said that the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area, which was under construction, would not be possible without the exchange of ideas, opinions and peoples between the two sides.

He strongly acknowledged the role played by the ASEAN and China Friendship Organizations in promoting friendly relations and developing mutually beneficial cooperation.

China-ASEAN Association President Gu Xiulian, Charge D'affaire of the Chinese Embassy to Malaysia Gu Jingqi, Malaysian Transport Minister Ong Tee Keat, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department of Malaysia Koh Tsu Koon attended the dinner.

On bilateral relations between Malaysia and China, Muhyiddin said that the deepening of friendship between Malaysians and Chinese had provided a solid foundation for a strong and dynamic bilateral relationship between the two countries, driving extensive growth in various aspects, especially trade and investment.

Muhyiddin cited the visit of Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak's recent visit to China as an example to explain Malaysia's commitment to further enhance relations with China.

"Najib's visit was not only historically meaningful but also a significant testimony of the leader's commitment to elevate relations with China. As said by the prime minister, his journey to China was not to walk in the same footsteps as his father Razak Hussein did 35 years ago but to walk faster and further," Muhyiddin said.

Muhyiddin reminded that no party should take the past accomplishments for granted in order to strengthen the relations with China either bilaterally or regionally as the region and the world were constantly changing with opportunities emerging everywhere.

Government officials, private sectors and non-governmental organizations should work together in expanding current cooperation and the complementary factors of ASEAN and China should be utilized as a strong basis for cooperation advancement, he added.

"Through regular meetings, all of you will add valuable views and share ideas that will further contribute to the development of peace, friendship and cooperation in the region," said Muhyiddin.

(Xinhua News Agency July 17, 2009)