On March 29, 2006, Chairman Jia Qinglin of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), who was on an official goodwill visit to Malaysia, met with former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in Kuala Lumpur. Both sides held cordial talks in a friendly atmosphere.

Jia said that with joint efforts of both sides, bilateral relations have gained all-round, rapid development and entered a new period of advancing strategic cooperation. Both sides have maintained frequent high-level exchanges, deepened effective exchanges and cooperation in the areas of economy & trade, culture, education, tourism, science & technology, health and defense and kept closer coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs. The sound situation in bilateral relations today is attributed to joint efforts of the leaders of both countries. Mr. Mahathir has always attached great importance to and pushed for the cause of bilateral friendship for a long period of time. The Chinese side would like to show respect for this old friend who has made enormous contributions to promoting development of bilateral relations and it is hoped that Mr. Mahathir will continue to show care and support for the cause of bilateral friendship. China would like to continue efforts with Malaysia to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in all areas and push for steady development of bilateral relations and China-ASEAN relations on the existing basis.

Mahathir indicated that it is very important for the leaders of both sides to maintain exchanges of visits and these efforts will push for in-depth development of bilateral relations and mutually beneficial cooperation. Bilateral exchanges enjoy a history of over 1,000 years and both sides have always been friendly to each other. China's rapid economic growth has spurred on sustainable development of South East Asian countries. The history and facts have proven that China's development is an important opportunity for the development of all South East Asian countries, but not a threat. Malaysia attaches great importance to further developing bilateral relations and economic and trade cooperation and Mahathir himself would also like to continue doing his utmost for promoting the cause of bilateral friendship.