Singapore supports India's bid for permanent UNSC seat

Singapore, Nov 20(ANI): Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong today pledged his country's support for India's presence at an expanded United Nation Security Council (UNSC).

At a banquet hosted in honour of visiting Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh here, Lee Hsien said: "We support India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council. We believe that India has much to contribute to the stability and progress of Asia."

Noting India's contribution to the ASEAN group of nations, the Singapore Prime Minister said: "India is an integral part of the regional architecture in Asia and is an important ASEAN dialogue partner. We look forward to celebrating 20 years of this partnership at the AEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi in December 2012."

Dr. Singh and Lee Hsien had met in Bali, Indonesia, just yesterday during the 19th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit at Bali, Indonesia, meeting.

Speaking about India-Singapore relations, Lee Hsien said that the relationship is comprehensive, mutually beneficial and in excellent shape.

He further expressed confidence in the strength of the deep and strong partnership between his country and India.

"As India continues to grow so will its influence and stature. Singapore looks forward to India playing a more active role in global affairs," Lee Hsien said.

Dr. Singh had arrived in Singapore late Saturday night to meet Lee Hsien, Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam, former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong, Senior Minister of Singapore.

The Prime Minister will unveil the Nehru Marker at the Asian Civilization Museum today evening before departing back for India.

There are five veto-holding permanent members of the United Nation Security Council-the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China-and 10 temporary elected members without vetoes.

But the elected members have some power because a council resolution needs nine votes in favor as well as no vetoes. By Smita Prakash (ANI)