PM Lee wraps up 'good and useful visit' to Washington DC
WASHINGTON: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has wrapped up the Washington D.C. leg of his trip to the United States.
Calling it a good and useful visit, he said it let him have candid discussions with many people in the Bush administration as well as Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and House Speaker Dennis Hastert.
And, one big plus is the signing of the Strategic Framework Agreement that will deepen military and security co-operation between Singapore and the US.
Speaking to the media, Mr Lee said that overall, discussions were centred on concerns about China, terrorism and the strategic framework in Asia.
"I think we see eye-to-eye on many of these issues," Mr Lee said.
"They understand the region is changing; Southeast Asia is important, China is developing, so is India. So they have to be engaged and part of this."
But at the same time, Americans have to manage troubling political ground pressures because of this new big picture while keeping an eye on long term benefits.
Asked about Singapore President S R Nathan's decision to run for a second term, Mr Lee said he is very happy.
Mr Lee also said Mr Nathan would make an excellent candidate.
The Prime Minister added that the writ of election would be issued before September 1.
Reporters also asked if Mr Nathan's age would be a problem - he is now 81.
Mr Lee replied: "Health is always a consideration, whatever the age. Mr Nathan has made full disclosure. I think that he has published a letter from his doctor Dr Y Y Wong stating his health condition, which is good for a man of his age. And the doctor sees no reason why he can't continue with his normal daily routine, and I think that's reassuring." - CNA/ir
Alright... good LHL is coming back. Lets see what he have to say about the NKF wooha.
And what is he doing there? I tot he went there to get win some discounts for Singapore. But according to report... it seem that the purpose of his visit, is nothing more than *ahem* la kopi Aye..... i think my father everyday sitting at kopi thiam also talk abt terrorism and stuff like that. Ah bo change my father become PM la... DPM also can.
" And, one big plus is the signing of the Strategic Framework Agreement that will deepen military and security co-operation between Singapore and the US. that will deepen military and security co-operation between Singapore and the US." Bombastic words "Strategic Framework Agreement". But i doubt any content inside