Message from The Honoraryconsul-general of The Republic of Singapore In Sri Lanka

I feel greatly honoured and take pride to avail myself of this precious opportunity to pen this message on the occasion of the 54th National Day of the Republic of Singapore. During my tenure of office spanning over seven years as its Honorary Consul General, I have continuously experienced and witnessed the rapid growth, new developments and expansion of many areas both within the country and across the borders of Singapore.

As observed by me, primarily the plans mooted for the introduction and improvement in the IT sector necessarily will bring far-reaching results. Especially the Smart Nation Building Project undertaken by the government will take full advantage of Information Technology (IT) and expected to create the Digital Government expanding and linking all government sectors and public services in a meaningful network. This will not only enhance the job opportunities but also create new business opportunities for the benefit of the people and assisting the growth of Singapore economy. This move will amply prove how improved the technology could transform the way in which even a district could be managed better and more efficiently.

This year is very significant for Singapore as it commemorates the 200th Anniversary of Sir Stamford Raffles’ landing in Singapore. The Bicentennial experience unfolds the country’s evolution even beyond the British arrival. Many programmes have been drawn up for the travelers to see who and who were instrumental in shaping Singapore to be what it is today. It also reflects on the difficult days of Japanese occupation and paying tribute to The brave volunteers who struggled to liberate the country. The programmes also depict how in the 20th century Singapore blossomed into a dynamic port city and the remarkable dividends accrued.

I should also mention gratefully the recent conclusion of the very successful and fruitful six day Conference for its Honorary Consuls General . The receptions, official discussions and visits outside with thoughtfully arranged meaningful agendas giving valuable insights and learning experiences were amazing. It also gave all of us an opportunity for new acquaintances and exchange of ideas. I owe my very sincere thanks to MFA Teams for the role they have played in organizing such a valuable forum.

The bilateral relations maintained between Sri Lanka and Singapore has deepened over the years with exchange of official visits by political leaders, business delegations and other individual visitors. With the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries, there is every opportunity for the investors to take advantage of it. Singapore is also a favourite tourist destination for holidaymakers .

There is a sizeable Singapore community residing and employed in Sri Lanka and majority of them are well known to us . We at the Mission are maintaining very close relationship with them. We are also very happy to have extended all necessary support to Singaporeans who have sought our assistance in sorting out various matters.

Finally I extend my best wishes to Madam Halimah Yacob President, Mr. Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan , Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Mr. Chandra Das, Nonresident High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, all our colleagues in the MFA and ICA ,the people of Singapore and all our Singaporean friends and families in Sri Lanka as they celebrate this historical day.