President Tony Tan: Singapore, UK share close ties

President Tony Tan Keng Yam says bilateral relations between Singapore and the United Kingdom have flourished under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. 

The President was speaking at the welcome dinner that he hosted for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who are here as representatives of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee. 

Dr Tan also noted the excellent progress both countries are making in the ongoing negotiations for the EU Singapore Free Trade Agreement and the EU-Singapore Partnership & Co-operation 
Agreement which is expected to be concluded by the end of this year. 

He added that both countries enjoy rich cultural relations in the fields of performing arts, visual arts, literature and heritage preservation. 

Dr Tan also stressed the deep goodwill between both countries. 

Earlier, a welcome ceremony was held at the Istana for Prince William and his wife, Catherine. 

Besides Dr Tan and Mrs Mary Tan, the royal couple also met Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Mrs Lee.