The following is an abridged version of details of the press conference called by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad to announce the 'Perdana Global Peace Forum - The Middle East Agenda' on June 22.


Question: Can you describe your relationship with the present government?

Mahathir: Well, when I decided to step down, I gave an undertaking that I will not involve myself in politics, that I would not interfere with the government. On the other hand, of course, there were certain things promised that should be done by the incoming government, but the incoming government not only did not do what was promised, but in fact, the incoming government reversed many of the decisions made while the leader in the incoming government was still in the (previous) government.

There were no objections, and we agreed fully with all the proposals. And I had (the promise) that they would be carried out. I understand, of course, that new leaders want to make an impact and make their mark during their period in power. But what was undertaken before should be carried out - new things can be introduced.

So the decision not to keep to the promises was not mine. I tolerated this for as much as possible including the charge that I finished all of the government's money, that the government was bankrupt and couldn't have any more projects.