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SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad said today that he is hoping to continue Malaysia's good relations with Singapore, describing the two countries as twins who were slightly different in size, with "the older twin a little bit bigger and older than the younger twin".
"Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, by Singapore Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong and his wife Ho Ching," We have been able to live together in a more harmonious way. at The Istana here.
Mahathir, who is in Singapore, said that it was not often that it was not always possible to provide
He also reckoned for the help of Singapore during Malaysia's recent financial troubles.
"We will always appreciate that. If there is any way we can return the hospitality, we will try to do so, "he said.
Although he did not go back to Singapore, he was considered to be in charge of the construction of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) project until the end of May 2020.
Following Malaysia's request for the deferment of the project, the government agreed to pay an abortion cost of S $ 15 million (RM45.4 million) to the Singapore government by Jan 31, 2019.
Mahathir said the most important thing was to continue good relations as there would be some differences between the two countries.
"There will also be competition but this is always healthy. It helps us really make an effort to win in any competition. This will help us grow even faster, "he said.
'Malaysia is Singapore's hinterland'
According to him, Malaysia and Singapore are mutually dependent.
"Singapore has no hinterland but must look at Malaysia as its hinterland. On the other hand, Singapore has had a lot of problems in the world.
Mahathir added that Malaysia needed the services of Singapore and other services related to trade and industry.
Singapore is Malaysia's second largest trading partner after China. Total bilateral trade between the two countries in 2017 was at RM220.88 billion, representing 12.9% of Malaysia's global trade.
Mahathir also said he was "very glad" to have the opportunity to discuss with Lee on how to improve relations between the two countries.
He noted that Lee was the second leader to visit Malaysia after his coalition in the 14th general election.
"Of course, it was not a formal visit. There was no parade or inspection of guard of honor, but the reception was as sincere as it could be. "
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