MFA Press Statement: Congratulatory letters from Singapore leaders to French President-Elect François Hollande

President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have conveyed congratulatory messages to President-elect of the French Republic Mr François Hollande.  The text of the letters is below.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
9 MAY 2012

Text of President Tony Tan's letter

8 May 2012

His Excellency Mr François Hollande
President-Elect
French Republic

Your Excellency,

       
        I have the honour to convey my warmest congratulations on your election as the seventh President of the fifth French Republic.

        France and Singapore enjoy excellent ties.  Our relations have been nurtured through many years of cooperation across a broad range of areas, for the mutual benefit of our peoples.  I look forward to working with you to foster even closer cooperation and understanding between our peoples, as well as between Europe and Asia.
    

        Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

TONY TAN KENG YAM

Text of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's letter

7 May 2012

Dear President-Elect Hollande,

       
        Please accept my warmest congratulations on your election as the seventh President of the Fifth French Republic. Your victory reflects the confidence that the French people have in your leadership and vision.

These are challenging times for France and the world. Strong leadership is needed to put the French economy on a firm path of recovery. France will need to work closely with its partners in the European Union, and especially in the Eurozone.  Difficult adjustments in economic and social policy will be necessary, to rectify imbalances and restore economic stability and growth. I am confident that, under your leadership, France will overcome its difficulties and emerge stronger.  
     
        France and Singapore share an excellent relationship, underpinned by strong bilateral trade and investments, and longstanding defence cooperation. Our cultural exchanges and people-to-people links are healthy and growing. Singapore also hosts the largest overseas French community in Southeast Asia. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our mutually beneficial relationship.

    I wish you good health and every success in your new appointment as President.

Yours sincerely,

LEE HSIEN LOONG

His Excellency Mr François Hollande
President-Elect
French Republic