Deep ties must carry through to next generation of leaders: PM

Washington, DC

THE fact that the United States invited Singapore to make an official visit is indicative of the good relations that the two countries enjoy, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Wednesday.

But more than that, the four-day visit this week - the first by a Singapore prime minister in 31 years - is also a reflection of the "emphasis and weight" that America places on Asia.

Mr Lee was giving his take on how other countries in the region and beyond would view Singapore's official visit, which included the first state dinner at the White House for a Southeast Asian leader under President Barack Obama's eight-year administration.

"It so happens that we are the ones invited, but it's not just because (the US is) friends with Singapore, but because Singapore is in the Asia-Pacific and America values the Asia-Pacific and all its friends there. I think that's how it should be…