PM: Saudi-M'sia ties 'longstanding, deep'
Malaysia and Saudi Arabia have a "longstanding and deep" relationship which dates back as far as the time of the Malacca sultanate, said Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.
Speaking at the Jeddah Economic Forum, he said ties between the two nations have been characterised by respect and best of friendship.
"Indeed, I am proud to say that we are like brothers," he added.
The prime minister also expressed gratitude to the Saudi royal family for their support over several decades.
"We will always appreciate it, and we will never forget it.
"From custodian of the two holy mosques His Majesty King Salman Abdullah and their esteemed predecessors, we in Malaysia have been so fortunate to have constant and trusted friends.
"I hope this forum, and my visit to Saudi Arabia, is just one of the many occasions and ways in which our country can reciprocate that friendship, and elevate it further in the spirit of wasatiyyah (moderation) and partnership," he said.
The prime minister has come under intense attack from various quarters over the RM2.6 billion and RM42 million deposited into his private accounts.
The RM42 million originated from the Finance Ministry-owned SRC international whereas the RM2.6 billion was described as political donation from the Saudi royal family.
Despite attorney-general Mohamed Apandi Ali clearing the prime minister, detractors continue to claim there is a cover-up.
Najib has also denied abusing public funds and blamed such allegations on those conspiring to engineer his downfall.
In his speech at the forum, the prime minister also stressed that Malaysia's economy continues to perform well despite the difficult circumstances.
"Our fundamentals are strong, and my administration continues to take all steps necessary to strengthen the resilience of our economy, and keep the country on an inclusive and sustainable path, with the fruits of growth shared equitably.
"So you can be confident that Malaysia will be a strong, stable and durable partner, whether you wish to invest in our country, work with us or our businessmen and women, or train and pursue new opportunities together in Malaysia or in any other part of the world," he said.
Citing IMF's recent report, he said the fund commended Malaysia for its "prudent monetary policy" and predicted that "conditions are expected to remain supportive of growth".
"Indeed, our trade performance in 2015 exceeded forecasts, and the ratings agency Fitch recently reaffirmed our A- rating and stable outlook.
"This is against the backdrop of an economy in which gross national income grew at an average annual growth rate of 5.5 percent from 2009 and 2015; 1.8 million jobs have been created since 2010, and private investment has more than doubled," he added.
On fighting extremism and terrorism, Najib described Malaysia and Saudi Arabia as inseparable partners.
"These are forces that have desecrated the name of our religion and perpetrated unspeakable barbarities on their own peoples, their own neighbours.
"We stand shoulder to shoulder with you in this fight, and we will never tire in the battle to defend the true, authentic Islam. For this is what brothers do," he said.
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