Malaysia-Japan ties to remain strong in all areas: Tun M

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad stressed that the Malaysian government will continue to ensure there is good cooperation between Japan and Malaysia in all areas.
The assurance was given by Dr Mahathir to Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the former's three day visit to Japan.
Dr Mahathir said in order to achieve good cooperation, both sides must be willing to give in to certain issues.
"Expecting only one party to give in would not result in very a positive conclusion.
"We are also happy that Japan welcomes Malaysia's Look East Policy once again, and we hope to benefit from this greater cooperation," he added.
Dr Mahathir pointed out that there are many benefits that can be derived from the good working cooperation between the two countries and that includes education, training for the locals, and investments from Japan itself as well as the establishing of a Japanese Branch University in Malaysia.
He said for the defence sector, both countries have negotiated and agreed that the seas around Malaysia, Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea to be free from navigation by all countries.
The Prime Minister also explained to his counterpart about the financial problem faced by Malaysia and had requested for a Yen credit from Japan as a solution in solving the financial problem.
"The Japanese Prime Minister said he will study this request," he added.