MFA Press Release: Message from Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo

MESSAGE FROM MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS GEORGE YEO TO
CAPTAIN SALEH SAID AL JABRI AND
THE CREW OF THE JEWEL OF MUSCAT

Dear Captain Saleh,

Congratulations to you and your wonderful crew on your safe arrival in Cochin! My Senior Minister of State Zainul Abidin Rasheed will represent all Singaporeans in celebrating with you the successful completion of the first half of your voyage.

I have followed your your daily updates with interest and admiration. I have also kept readers of my Facebook and blog sites regularly informed of your progress. Your re-enactment of a journey that took place over a thousand years ago fills us with awe and excitement. The seamanship of the Omani people is once again in full display!

The gift of the Jewel of Muscat by Sultan Qaboos to the people of Singapore expresses the friendship between our two countries. It also reminds us of the links that have connected the Middle East and Southeast Asia over the centuries. Of course in this century, the maritime silk route is being revived on a huge scale. Your voyage is therefore an inspiration to all of us who share in the hopes of a new Asia.

I look forward to welcoming you and your crew to Singapore, and pray that the second half of your journey will also be smooth sailing.

George Yeo

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