The agreements, announced on Wednesday, reflect Beijing’s bid to present itself as a dependable trade partner to Southeast Asia amid escalating tariff threats from Washington.

“We stand with the Chinese government, for the well-being of our people and for our national economic interests, as well as the overall development and stability of our country,” Anwar told state-run Chinese broadcaster CGTN.

Among the 31 agreements signed by the two countries are deals covering expanded trade and services, fresh coconut exports from Malaysia, increased Chinese tourism and student exchanges with Southeast Asia, and deeper cooperation in artificial intelligence, the digital economy and rail infrastructure.

At a state banquet following the signing of the agreements, Anwar and Xi struck a unified tone in defence of open trade and regional cooperation, while taking veiled swipes at rising US protectionism.