Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad underscored the need for good economic linkages and mutual respect in Malaysia – Singapore relations.
Describing the relationship of the neighbouring countries as that of ‘twins’, he said.
“Malaysia and Singapore are like twins, except maybe the elder twin is a little bit bigger than the younger one.
“However, we have been able to live together. It is not often that we see countries come together and then separate but still work together and help each other.”
Dr Mahathir said this at a luncheon after meeting with Singapore President Halimah Yacob and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Dr Mahathir, who was earlier given an official welcome by his Singapore counterpart at the Istana here, also thanked Singapore for the help which the neighbours had extended to Malaysia during the recent financial crisis.
“We appreciate it and we value the hospitality. Most importantly, we must continue the good relations.
“As with most countries, there will be differences and there will be competition between us. However it will help us grow even faster”, he said.
Dr Mahathir said Malaysia and Singapore were inter-dependent with the island state now emerging as Malaysia’s largest trading partner.
He hoped the good economic relations and mutual respect which both countries have for each other will continue.
On Malaysia and Singapore's role in the region, he said together they could be effective in helping the whole region grow.
He pointed out how ASEAN had grown from a grouping of 5 countries to 10.
He said initially the neighbouring countries in the region were aggressive and competed against each other.
“We did not see each other as friends and neighbours but as competitors. However, ASEAN has since not only survived but has grown.
“I hope these strong relations will be further enhanced as we can only benefit from competing and working with others.”
Earlier, Lee in his speech also stressed on the good relations between both countries.
He said the people of both countries had close bonds with each other, with many Malaysians and Singaporeans having family members on both sides of the border.
He also described Malaysia as a close partner.