PM Lee discusses enhancing ties with Vietnam & India

CAMBODIA: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong held meetings with his counterparts from Vietnam and India on the sidelines of the 21st ASEAN Summit in Phnom Penh.

The talks with Vietnam’s Nguyen Tan Dung focused on elevating relations to a strategic partnership in 2013, in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Both leaders also had a good exchange of views on regional developments and ways to strengthen cooperation within ASEAN.

During his meeting with India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Mr Lee welcomed India’s decision to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which would deepen India’s engagement with ASEAN and the region.

With regards to the ongoing second review of the India—Singapore Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), they agreed to direct officials to work towards an expeditious conclusion.

They also discussed ways to strengthen ASEAN—India cooperation, ahead of the ASEAN—India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi next month.

— CNA/xq