The friendly relations between China and Malaysia are an epitome of China's high-level development of relations with neighboring countries, said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday.
It is reported that Malaysians' favorability towards China reaches new heights, according to a public opinion survey by a Malaysian research firm. Among all participants of the survey, 77 percent of them hold positive views about China, increasing significantly from 39 percent in 2022.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia.
"China and Malaysia are neighbors across the sea, enjoying a long-standing traditional friendship. Good-neighborliness, friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation, unity and coordination have defined our bilateral relations," Mao said.
"The friendly relations between China and Malaysia are an epitome of China's high-level development of relations with neighboring countries. In recent years, China and neighboring countries have enjoyed deepening friendship and mutual trust, increasingly entwined interests, and fruitful practical cooperation. This has injected stability and certainty to a complex world landscape, greatly contributed to the lasting peace and stability and fast economic growth in the region, and benefited people from regional countries, which receives wide support and recognition."
"China stands ready to continue acting on the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness and work with neighboring countries to build an Asian home, advance the building of an Asian community with a shared future, and inject more positive energy into peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region and the wider world," she said.
China's ties with Malaysia epitomize its development of relations with neighbors: spokeswoman
China's ties with Malaysia epitomize its development of relations with neighbors: spokeswoman
Morocco welcomed 5.7 million tourists in the first four months of 2025, up 23 percent from the same period last year, according to the latest official data from the kingdom's Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts and Social and Solidarity Economy.
The North African nation's tourism revenue reached 2.46 billion U.S. dollars in the first quarter of 2025, up 2.4 percent year on year.
Several factors contributed to this surge, including enhanced air connectivity, strategic marketing efforts, and a diverse range of attractions.
"The 'Morocco, Land of Light' campaign is disseminated in 20 global tourist destinations through digital media platforms and giant display screens in world capitals. Thanks to the partnership with international airlines, the number of international flights increased by 20 percent in one year," said Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Moroccan Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts and Social and Solidarity Economy.
Foreign direct investment also played a crucial role in Morocco's tourism growth. Over the past five years, the country has averaged 3.5 billion U.S. dollars annually in FDI across all sectors.
"Foreign direct investments boost tourism projects and infrastructure and contribute to economic development. Morocco is a safe and stable country. That's why it continues to attract FDIs in all related sectors," said tourism expert Idriss Idrissi.
From the vibrant cities of Rabat, Marrakesh and Casablanca to serene beaches and unique desert resorts, Morocco offers a diverse experience for every type of travelers.
"Morocco has a colorful scenery. We're also glad to live an immersive experience in the old Medina where we can walk, eat and meet an amazing welcoming local community. Morocco is both traditional and very modern. It's an extraordinary experience!" said French Tourist Line Tezze.
The great performance of the tourism industry has also benefited the locals.
For many local artisans like Sidi Omar Tadili, tourism serves as a crucial source of income.
"The tourism boom has boosted the revenues of all Moroccan artisans. It has also opened up new markets while creating direct and indirect jobs in the craft industry across Morocco," said the artisan.
With Morocco set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 African Cup of Nations, tourism is expected to continue its upward trajectory.
Morocco sees tourism boom in first four months of 2025
