MFA Press Statement: State Visit of His Excellency Denis Sassou-Nguesso, President of the Republic of Congo, 3-7 July 2011

The President of the Republic of Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso is currently in Singapore on a State Visit from 3 to 7 July 2011.

President Sassou-Nguesso called on President S R Nathan after receiving a Ceremonial Welcome at the Istana on 4 July 2011. President Nathan also hosted a State Banquet in honour of President Sassou-Nguesso that evening. Today, President Sassou-Nguesso received a call by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Istana.

During the meetings, the leaders affirmed the warm and friendly relations between Singapore and the Republic of Congo. President Sassou-Nguesso highlighted the Congolese government's economic diversification plans and expressed a keen interest in attracting investors from Singapore. The leaders also underscored their commitment to enhance bilateral cooperation and raise mutual awareness between both countries.

Earlier today, President Sassou-Nguesso attended a business networking reception jointly organised by the Singapore Business Federation and the Congolese government. During the reception, the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Congo Ministry of Industrial Development and Private Sector Promotion for the provision of advisory services on enterprise and workforce development.

On 5 July 2011, President Sassou-Nguesso delivered a speech at the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) Water Ministers' Plenary, and attended the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Award Ceremony and Dinner.

President Sassou-Nguesso also visited Surbana Corporation Pte Ltd, Jurong Island, the Urban Redevelopment Authority, Marina Barrage and the National Museum of Singapore.

President Sassou-Nguesso and his delegation are scheduled to depart Singapore on 7 July 2011.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
6 JULY 2011