Singapore @ 60: 'An improbable nation'

A gainst all odds, the former marshland has become a First World country.

- JOANNE RAE M. RAMIREZ

At just over 700 square kilometers, and in just six decades, Singapore has transformed from a humble trading port into a Lion City, indeed, one of the world's most prosperous hubs.

"Singapore is in many ways an improbable nation, but we have survived and thrived through our resolve, unity of purpose and a certain daring and boldness of spirit," she said.

Singapore is also one of the top foreign investors in the Philippines.

"Our investments grew by nearly 40 percent in the last five years, reflecting our confidence and desire to participate in the Philippines' growth," she pointed out.

"We are also proud to host a large and vibrant Filipino community who have made invaluable contributions to our economy and society," she added.

There are over 250,000 Filipinos living and working in Singapore, according to diplomatic sources.

Ambassador See is the daughter of a police officer. After graduating from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Sciences and University of London's King's College with a master's degree in Strategy and War Studies, she joined Singapore's Foreign Service. Her next assignment was with the Singapore Embassy in Washington D.C., followed by a posting at the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei. She held other appointments in between in international organizations and covering mainly Southeast Asia.