Dr Mahathir Mohamad says that he will visit Beijing once he is able to find the time to do so. 

The prime minister told the press in Tokyo today that Beijing has sent him an invitation and a visit is in the pipeline.

"I have been invited by Beijing.

"I wanted to go to Japan because I want to attend the 'The Future of Asia' conference which I have been going to every year," he said, referring to his working visit to Japan to attend the Nikkei Conference. 

"I will visit Beijing once I have free time."

Mahathir reiterated that Malaysia will retain a good relationship with China.

"Ever since last time, China considered us as a friend.

"They are comfortable dealing with Malaysia. China's market is huge and that would give us the opportunity to export our products," he said.

Mahathir added any differences in perception can be discussed amicably.