Putrajaya: President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who is on a three-day official visit to Malaysia, was accorded an official welcoming ceremony at the Perdana Putra Complex today. This marks Embalo's first visit to Malaysia since he took office in February 2020.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ceremony commenced with the playing of the national anthems of Guinea-Bissau and Malaysia. Upon arrival at 9 am, Embalo was received by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The ceremony included an inspection of a guard of honour mounted by three officers and 103 members of the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (Ceremonial), led by Major Mohamad Waqiyudin Abd Rahman. Notable attendees included Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, as well as senior government officials and diplomats.

Following the welcoming protocols, President Embalo signed the guest book before engaging in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anwar. The discussions focused on trade and investment, agriculture, education, and capacity building. Both leaders are also anticipated to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Malaysia and Guinea-Bissau have maintained diplomatic relations since November 1974. The bilateral ties are characterized by a commitment to cooperation on various platforms, including the United Nations (UN), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). In 2024, Malaysia's total trade with Guinea-Bissau was recorded at RM4.1 million, with exports amounting to RM4.04 million and imports at RM0.06 million.