Chinese President Hu in Singapore for first state visit
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 11 November 2009 2127 hrs

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SINGAPORE : Chinese President Hu Jintao is in Singapore for his first state visit to the Republic.

The trip kicks off a series of events to mark the 20th anniversary of bilateral ties next year.

This is President Hu Jintao's second visit to Singapore, but his first as China's head of state.

He arrived on Wednesday evening and was given a warm welcome by President SR Nathan at the Istana.

In a meeting with President Nathan later, both leaders affirmed the strong bilateral ties.

President Hu also said joint projects in Suzhou and Tianjin have brought tangible benefits to all parties.

At a dinner held in the Chinese leader's honour, President Nathan said an economically vibrant China is a catalyst for growth in Asia.

In his speech, President Nathan said that Singapore, like ASEAN, wants peace and stability in Asia. And the key to this aspiration, he said, is a stable, open and prosperous China that takes an active interest in the region.

President Hu also met Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.

The Chinese leader said despite the economic crisis, he noticed many construction sites in the city. He added this is a sign that stimulus policies have taken effect.

President Hu will meet with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday, and will attend the APEC Summit later this week.

Singapore-China relations are underpinned by strong economic links, and ties will be given an additional boost with the loan of a pair of pandas to Singapore. - CNA /ls