PNoy Considers Singaporean Leader’s Visit a Sign of Deep Friendship

President Benigno S. Aquino III said the visit of Singaporean President Tony Tan Keng Yam to the Philippines reaffirms the deep friendship between the two countries.

In his toast during the state luncheon last Thursday in honor of the Singaporean leader, President Aquino said President Tan’s visit also serves as an opportunity to explore areas of cooperation.

“As a friend and neighbor to Singapore, the Philippines believes that development between our two countries should not only proceed in parallel, but should be hand-in-hand. After all, it is through solidarity and cooperation that we will see the achievement of vast gains for both our peoples,” he said.

President Tan met with President Aquino to discuss matters of mutual concern, including cooperations in defense, trade and investment, as well as the Filipino community in Singapore.

President Aquino also expressed his gratitude to Singapore and its people for their solidarity with the Philippines, especially in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda.

The President assured Singapore that the Filipino people would never forget the help it extended to support the relief and rehabilitation efforts in typhoon-hit areas.

President Aquino also thanked Singapore for the hospitality it has extended to all the Filipinos living and working in the city-state, whom, he said, “advance our two countries’ desire for mutual progress.”

“Their work helps Singapore maintain its competitive position as a center for international trade and commerce, while their remittances serve as a significant boost to their family members here, as well as to the Philippine economy,” he said.

President Aquino also expressed his admiration for Singapore’s achievements, citing NEWater, Singapore’s reclaimed water, as a prime example of how initiative and a little ingenuity can go a long way. “Seeing your success, I believe more and more Filipinos have become more aware of the possibilities this approach can open up; and now, I am pleased to say that, like Singapore, we are beginning to fully utilize all of God’s bounties and gifts to us,” he said.

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