HKSAR Chief Executive Donald Tsang called on PM Lee Hsien Loong and was hosted to lunch by Mr Lee at the Istana on 17 July 2006. Both leaders had a candid and warm discussion on bilateral relations, and exchanged views on domestic developments in Hong Kong and Singapore. Mr Lee noted that while Singapore and Hong Kong competed in some areas, the bilateral relationship was largely cooperative and complementary, with scope for both sides to learn from one another. Mr Lee also shared broadly Singapore's experience in leadership renewal, and in running our systems of taxation, healthcare, and education. The two leaders also discussed regional and international issues, including the global economic outlook, and the common threats to growth and security, such as avian influenza and the continuing unrest in the Middle East.

PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE

SINGAPORE

17 JULY 2006