DPM Heng Kicks Off China Visit, Meets Diplomat Liu Jianchao

Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was hosted to breakfast by Mr Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC), in Beijing on March 25, kicking off a four-day working visit.

- Lim Min Zhang

DPM Heng and Mr Liu noted that Singapore and China would be marking the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025, as well as other bilateral milestones, such as the 10th anniversary of the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

The two leaders said both countries had strong people-to-people and party-to-party relations, which have enhanced mutual understanding, added MFA. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments.

In a Facebook post on his official account on March 25, DPM Heng was seen being greeted by Mr Liu with a hug on the shoulder. Ms Sun Haiyan, deputy minister of the CPC International Department and former ambassador of China to Singapore, was part of the Chinese delegation.

DPM Heng was seen presenting books to Mr Liu that included