Fruits of relations underscore importance and benefits of constructive engagement

Although Singapore is a small city state geographically, it is a respected larger-than-life player on the world stage, thanks to not only its rags-to-riches development, but more importantly its hallmark strategic autonomy in handling foreign affairs that has helped it maintain stable relations with all parties.

As regards relations between China and Singapore, their relationship is characterized by strong economic ties, strategic cooperation and mutual respect. The strength of their ties is of great significance for the Asia-Pacific region.

It was therefore no surprise that Singaporean Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan stressed the time-honored close connections between China and Singapore during his visit to China on Sunday and Monday.