ESM Goh: S'pore strong supporter of China's development

Singapore will continue to be a strong supporter of China's development, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said in Tianjin, China, on Sunday.

Mr Goh, who was speaking at the opening ceremony for the 4th China International Eco-City Forum and Expo also lauded the Tianjin Eco-city project for its "good progress", which he said demonstrated how "governments and private sectors of both countries can cooperate".

Tianjin Eco-city, a flagship collaborative project between China and Singapore, celebrated its fifth anniversary on Sunday.

"Within a short span of five years, it has already accomplished much in the area of sustainable development," Mr Goh said, noting that the city is now on track to become the first city in China to provide 100 per cent potable water to residents and businesses, directly from the tap.

Minister for National Development Khaw Boon Wan, who was in Tianjin with Mr Goh, said that Tianjing eco-city was "well-placed to lead the way to inclusive and harmonious growth in China".

Mr Khaw called for the consolidation of the city as "the leader in eco-development", as well as for enhanced connectivity so that the development could serve as a "model satellite city and a supporting player to the surrounding region".

He also encouraged "innovative social management policies" in Tianjin Eco-city, noting that social management is a priority in Singapore's bilateral engagement with China.

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