RIYADH, 28 November 2006 — Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong sketched out yesterday an optimistic picture for the bilateral ties binding his country and Saudi Arabia and mentioned areas where the two countries could cooperate.
“One area for deeper engagement is stronger people-to-people linkages to build mutual understanding. This afternoon, I am glad to announce that Singapore has eased its visa requirements. For all diplomatic passport holders, visa requirements will be waived starting next year,” said Lee.
Lee made the statement during a meeting at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) attended by RCCI President Abdulrahman Al-Jeraisy, Secretary-General Omar Bailawah of the Center for International Trade, other RCCI officials and businessmen.
He added that people who need to regularly travel to Singapore could apply for long-term visas and would be issued with biometric cards, which allow them automatic immigration clearance. “We hope that this will encourage more exchanges among businessmen, government officials, students and tourists,” said Lee, who is on a visit as head of a 32-member high-profile delegation that includes Foreign Minister George Yeo and Minister of Environment and Water Resources Dr. Yacoob Ibrahim, who is also in charge of Muslim affairs.
The premier said Singapore and Saudi Arabia should look for opportunities to venture into third countries. He said that the two countries could serve as gateways for their respective regions. Saudi companies looking to enter China and India can explore partnerships with Singapore companies that have experience in these markets.
“Our bilateral relationship has grown significantly in recent years. Working together, I am confident that we can further strengthen our economic ties and forge a strong and comprehensive partnership,” Lee said.
He added that Saudi Arabia is a key economy in the Middle East and that it has exerted great efforts to diversify its economy.
