Is Singapore delaying water talks until 2061 deal end?

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Singapore May Be Delaying Water Talks Until Current Agreement Expires in 2061

Former Malaysian Finance Minister Tun Daim Zainuddin suggested that Singapore might be delaying discussions on the water dispute, positing that the city-state could become self-sufficient in its water supply by 2061, the year the current water agreement is set to expire. This perspective implies that Singapore may be strategically prolonging the talks to potentially terminate the agreement without significant disadvantage. Despite this, Daim also acknowledged Singapore's recent willingness to engage in discussions regarding the water dispute as a notable development.
Potential for Singaporean Water Self-Sufficiency

Tun Daim Zainuddin indicated that Singapore is projected to achieve full self-sufficiency in water by 2061. This assessment is based on the expectation that the city-state's own water production and supply capabilities will meet its demands by the time the existing 1962 Water Agreement concludes. This projected self-sufficiency is seen as a potential factor influencing Singapore's approach to the ongoing negotiations.
Implication of Stalling Tactics

Daim implied that Singapore might be employing delaying tactics in the water talks, suggesting a strategy to extend the dispute until it is no longer reliant on Malaysian raw water. The former minister's comments suggest that Singapore could be aiming to reach a point where it can unilaterally dissolve the agreement without incurring losses related to water procurement.
Acknowledgment of Recent Progress

Despite the concerns about potential delays, Tun Daim Zainuddin also recognised Singapore's recent openness to discussing the water dispute. He described this willingness to engage in dialogue as a significant milestone, suggesting a potential shift in the tenor of the discussions.
Malaysia's Stance on Amicable Resolution

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has stated that both Malaysia and Singapore have agreed to pursue an amicable resolution to their water dispute. He indicated that this approach includes the possibility of involving the global community in seeking a solution, a topic he discussed with his Singaporean counterpart, Lee Hsien Loong, during a recent bilateral meeting.
Terms of the 1962 Water Agreement

Under the current 1962 Water Agreement, Singapore purchases raw water from Johor at a rate of 3 sen per 1,000 gallons. In return, Singapore sells treated water back to Malaysia for 50 sen per 1,000 gallons. This agreement is a central point of contention in the ongoing bilateral discussions.

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Is Singapore delaying water talks until 2061 deal end?

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