MFA Press Statement: Visit of Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong to Hainan, People's Republic of China, 4 to 8 April 2013

Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong visited Hainan Province, People’s Republic of China, from 4 – 8 April 2013 to attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference. 

ESM, who is a member of the BFA Board of Directors, called on President Xi Jinping with other BFA Board members this morning.  They discussed how the BFA could contribute to Asia’s development.  ESM also attended a luncheon hosted by President Xi for Heads of State and Heads of Government attending the BFA Annual Conference. President Xi conveyed his appreciation to ESM for his contributions in furthering Sino-Singapore relations.

ESM called on President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev at the sidelines of the BFA Annual Conference this afternoon.  They acknowledged relations between Singapore and Kazakhstan are very good, and had a good discussion on Kazakhstan’s development challenges.

ESM also called on Prime Minister of New Zealand John Key (who was attending the BFA Annual Conference) yesterday.  Prime Minister Key and ESM reaffirmed the excellent relations between Singapore and New Zealand. They exchanged views on regional developments including the situation in the Korean Peninsula and progress of regional economic integration initiatives.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

7 APRIL 2013