Malaysia, Singapore agree to curb air, sea tensions

Malaysia, Singapore agree to curb air, sea tensions

Both sides have agreed to the simultaneous suspension of a restricted area near the border with Singapore as well as instrument landing procedures at Seletar Airport, among others.

Malaysia and Singapore have reiterated their commitment to preserving their relationship on ‘the basis of equality and mutual respect’. (AFP pic)
SINGAPORE:
Malaysia and Singapore today agreed to take steps to de-escalate air and maritime disputes, according to a joint statement issued by their foreign ministries.

The measures include the simultaneous suspension of a restricted area in Malaysia near the border with Singapore and instrument landing procedures at Singapore’s Seletar Airport, which Malaysia has objected to on grounds that it could hamper building development in its southern-most state.

On the maritime front, the sides agreed to the establishment of a working group to discuss issues around port limits. Singapore last month protested to Malaysia’s plan to extend the limits of a port saying it encroached on its territorial waters.

“Both sides reiterated their commitment to preserving the vital relationship between both countries and to improving bilateral ties, on the basis of equality and mutual respect,” said the statement issued after a meeting between the two countries’ foreign ministers today.

“They agreed on the importance of keeping the situation on the ground calm to allow discussions to take place in a conducive atmosphere.”

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