Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe holds talks with the Malaysian Senior Minister and Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein via video link on September 27, 2021. Photo: China's Ministry of National Defense

China is ready to work with Malaysia to oppose hegemonism and power politics, strengthen communication and properly handle differences on the South China Sea issue, jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific and inject more positive energy into the turbulent world, said Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister, Wei Fenghe, on Monday during a conversation with Malaysian Defense Minister, Hishammuddin Hussein, through video link.

The two militaries should maintain high-level communications, promote the creation of cooperation mechanisms, strengthen multilateral coordination and constantly upgrade practical cooperation, Wei said.

Hishammuddin said that Malaysia sincerely appreciates China's assistance in Malaysia's fight against the epidemic and stands ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with China in fields such as epidemic control and military affairs.

Malaysia will coordinate positions and strengthen cooperation with China on major issues concerning regional security and raise bilateral relations and military-to-military cooperation to a new level, Hishammuddin said.

As Southeast Asian countries grow unnerved about AUKUS, a trilateral pact between the US, the UK and Australia that will provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, Malaysia announced it would seek China's views on AUKUS, as the key ASEAN member is concerned about regional peace and stability that could be ruined by a security pact-triggered arms race.

The Malaysian Defense Minister said on Wednesday that his ministry is planning a working visit to China soon to discuss the matter, especially on defense-related issues.