Chinese President Meets Lee Kuan Yew

President Jiang Meets with Lee Kuan Yew

President Jiang Zemin met Tuesday with Singaporean Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Jiang called Lee an "old friend" of China and expressed his appreciation for Lee's contribution to the Sino-Singaporean friendship.

The relations between China and Singapore are very good, according to Jiang. He said that the two sides have maintained close contacts and exchanges at various levels and that the cooperation between the two sides in various areas has been fruitful.

The Chinese side is satisfied with the momentum of the development of Sino-Singaporean relations, Jiang said.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Sino-Singaporean diplomatic ties, Jiang said, adding that he hopes the two countries will take this opportunity to push forward the mutually-beneficial cooperation between the two countries in various fields.

Lee said that he agrees with Jiang's comments on bilateral relations. He expressed admiration for China's achievements in various sectors in recent years and said that he is optimistic about the prospect of China's development.

In response to his request, Jiang briefed Lee on the Chinese Government's principled position on the Taiwan issue.

Lee said that the Singaporean Government will adhere to the one-China policy.

Lee arrived in Beijing Sunday for a working visit and for attending the 21st Century Forum -- Conference 2000 sponsored by the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).