DANDONG, China: Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo said Singapore is of interest to North Korea as the island is small and poses no threat to the northeast Asian nation.

After a five-day official visit to North Korea, Mr Yeo noted that given Singapore's friendliness to the country, it is likely that Pyongyang may seek the city-state out in areas useful to it.

Speaking in Dandong, China, Mr Yeo said the North Koreans have indicated their interest in having more businesses operating in their country.

The North Koreans added that they hope to see further cooperation between the two countries in areas of science, technology and culture.

They even suggested that patients can be sent to Singapore for treatment, and expressed an interest in scholarships for their students.

Mr Yeo added that there is no loss of face if the North Koreans take up ideas from Singapore. - CNA/ac