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Singapore-China Relations Close, Positive, Balanced: Singapore President
Singapore President S.R. Nathan has described the current Singapore-China relations as "highly positive", "very close" and "already balanced" and expressed his belief that the complementarity of the two countries can be further developed for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.
In an interview with Chinese correspondents based in Singapore ahead of his upcoming state visit to China, the president said that the current relations between Singapore and China are "highly positive" and underlined by the close relations at various levels and in different fields.
"Our leaders have had long contacts with yours, useful exchanges and shared many views about world and regional affairs as well as bilateral relations," the president said.
Sino-Singapore economic relations have grown continuously over the past years and have become much stronger now with Singapore being China's seventh largest trade partner and fifth investor, the president said.
He said friendly relations and frequent exchanges between the two countries have "developed in various planes, at the political leadership level, at the business level, at the people-people level and also among the young people."
Referring to his upcoming state visit to China, the president said the purpose of his visit is to underline the importance he personally attaches to the relations with China and the Chinese people and will take the opportunity to meet with Chinese leaders to exchange views on China's economic and social development and perceptions about the region as well as the world.
He also wants to have a look at the changes taking place in China, he added.
President Nathan stressed that Singapore and China can work on a complementary basis as China is a large country with many resources and highly capable people while Singapore, though a small country, has a certain ability in economic development and management.
"There will be considerable opportunities for both countries and both peoples" and "I hope this complementarity can be further developed", the president said.
He underlined the need for more contacts and exchanges between younger political leaders as well as young people at various levels as these would help foster a sense of familiarity.
He said the important message he will carry to China is that " We look forward to your progress and prosperity. We look forward to you playing a role in the progress and prosperity in this region. And we look forward to stability in your relations with others."
President Nathan plans to pay a state visit to China from September 12 to September 22.
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