On the afternoon of September 13, 2001, President Jiang Zemin met with Singapore President S.R. Nathan, who is on a state visit to China.

Jiang remarked that bilateral relations have been developing very well since the two countries established diplomatic ties ten years ago, with constant bilateral contacts and exchanges at high and all other levels. Remarkable progress has been made in bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and human resources development. The first-phase project of the Suzhou Industrial Park is also a success. At the turn of the centuries, the two countries issued a joint statement on cooperation, which clarified the direction of the bilateral relationship in the new century. He said that Singapore is important in both Asia and Southeast Asia. Bilateral cooperation of mutual benefit has vast potential, and China is ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with Singapore.

Nathan expressed thanks to President Jiang for the warm reception. He first conveyed greetings from Singapore Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong and Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew to Jiang. He said that this is his first state visit to a country outside the ASEAN, which is a demonstration of how Singapore values its relations with China. He also made note of Jiang's important speech delivered on July 1 as China was celebrating the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, China's upcoming access to the World Trade Organization and its successful bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games. Singapore admires China's great achievements in reform and opening-up made in the past 20-plus years.

Nathan said that bilateral relations have developed smoothly, bilateral economic cooperation has been expanding and the two countries have become important partners in cooperation. China is a country with an ancient civilization and old traditions. By learning from each other, Singapore has also benefited in its development. It is important to strengthen contacts between the youth of the two countries so as to build a friendly future for the two countries.

Jiang also commented on Tuesday's attacks on the U.S. He noted that people all over the world, after long periods of suffering in the last century, yearn for lasting peace and stability. The tragedy in the U.S., which occurred at the beginning of a new century, cannot but set people thinking. He had sent messages of condolence to U.S. President George W. Bush, the American people and relatives of those victims. Jiang called on the international community for more cooperation to curb terrorism so that people's safety will be guaranteed and world peace safeguarded.

Nathan fully agreed with Jiang. He said that the world is facing new threats from terrorism and that should be dealt with earnestly. Singapore, together with China and the rest of the international community, is ready to enhance international cooperation in countering terrorism.

Nathan invited Jiang to visit Singapore again. Jiang expressed thanks.

Jiang also asked Nathan to convey his cordial greetings to Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong and Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew.