On the afternoon of April 24, President Jiang Zemin met with Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz at the Great Hall of the People. Extending a welcome to Salahuddin, Jiang voiced his appreciation for the fact that China is the first destination of Salahuddin's foreign visits outside ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) which demonstrates the importance attached by Salahuddin on bilateral relations. It is believed that Salahuddin's current state visit to China will further enhance the mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples and mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation.

Jiang Spoke highly of the traditional friendship between the two peoples, and the steady and healthy development of bilateral friendly relations since the forging of diplomatic ties 27 years ago. Jiang recalled the Chinese fleet led by Zheng He, which reached the Malacca Strait in the Ming Dynasty (1368--1644), a manifestation of bilateral exchanges long ago. Jiang went on to say that there are still constant exchanges between leaders of the two countries, which play an important role in furthering the understanding, friendship and trust between the two peoples. The two countries have understood and supported each other on a series of major international issues. He noted that although the two countries have different histories, traditions and political systems, they enjoy a profound friendship, which will last forever.

Jiang also spoke highly of Malaysia's achievements in overcoming its financial crisis and realizing an overall resurgence and development of its economy.

He briefed Salahuddin on China's domestic economic situation and hoped that the Sultan would visit more places in China so as to experience in person the changes in China.

Salahuddin first thanked Jiang for the warm invitation and cordial reception accorded to him. He remarked that to visit China has been his long-cherished wish and his current six-day visit to China is his longest foreign visit so far. Noting the great changes that have taken place in China, he also wishes China to score even greater achievements in economic construction. He also spoke highly of the development of bilateral friendly relations in various fields, believing that with joint efforts by the two governments and peoples, there will be a further development of bilateral friendly cooperation in the new century.