Published: 2009-06-11 10:29:25
   SHANGHAI, June 7 -- Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has called for Singapore companies to tap into China's growth and seek out business opportunities in the country's outlying provinces.

   Mr Lee, who travelled from Ningbo in Zhejiang Province to Shanghai using the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, spoke to the Singapore media on Sunday as he wrapped up his four-day visit to China.

   The Hangzhou Bay Bridge is the world's longest trans-oceanic bridge that stretches 36 kilometres.

   The prime minister had a first hand look at how China is pushing for economic progress with infrastructure developments and concerted efforts to stimulate growth in second-tier cities.

   He said that with a strong Singapore brand, local companies can tap into China's growth with more confidence.

   "I think the private sector is playing a much wider role now. There are many projects which the private sector has taken up, and taken the ball and running. The scope has broadened ?C we are in more places and our business people are more confident," said Mr Lee.

   "At the same time, we are cultivating relationships with several of the provinces where there is greater potential with the provincial and city government. If you have a good relationship with the officials, it helps a great deal to open doors and open up opportunities for our business people."

   In Shanghai, Mr Lee met Party Secretary Yu Zhengsheng and they exchanged views on how both sides can set a new direction for long-term economic sustainability.

   He also officiated at the commencement ceremony of the Singapore Pavilion for next year's World Expo, which will mark the island's largest undertaking at a world exposition.

   China is Singapore's third largest trading partner and top investment destination. Last year, both countries signed the Singapore-China Free Trade Agreement which laid the foundation for further growth in bilateral trade and investments.

Source: Channel NewsAsia