Leaders' wise policies allow Singapore to 'punch above its weight': Obama

Kuala Lumpur

SINGAPORE is a country that "punches above its weight" despite its small population - thanks to the wise policies of the country's leaders and its "ability to work with all countries", according to US President Barack Obama.

Speaking to US and Singapore reporters on Sunday of "the wonderful state of bilateral relations" which is "very, very strong", the US leader went on to note that Singapore is globally admired for the progress it has made - in particular, the prosperity and opportunities it has created for Singaporeans.