Singapore leaders have sent congratulations to Chinese leaders on the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

According to a statement by Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, in a letter sent to Chinese President Hu Jintao, Singapore President S R Nathan said that China's dramatic transformation in the last 60 years has been phenomenal.

"China has overcome many challenges to achieve exceptional economic growth and progress. China today is one of the leading economies in the world. China has also become a key player on major global issues, such as climate change and nuclear non-proliferation," he said.

"I am confident, under your wise leadership, China will continue to grow and prosper, and emerge in the world economy to benefit not only the people of China but also the rest of Asia." Nathan added.

He added that Singapore cherishes its excellent relations with China, which is anchored on deepening and broadening bilateral economic, political and cultural cooperation. The frequent high-level visits, increasing people-to-people exchanges and robust economic collaboration underpin our excellent bilateral ties.

"As our two countries celebrate 20 years of diplomatic relations next year, I have every confidence that we will build upon the foundation of our excellent relationship and deepen it further in the years to come," Nathan said.

He also said that he looks forward to welcoming Hu to Singapore later this year in connection with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders' Summit, and also for a bilateral state visit to Singapore.

Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also sent a letter to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

Lee said that China has made tremendous progress in the last 60years.

"Today, China is one of the world's leading economies and an indispensable participant in many international issues such as climate change and nuclear non-proliferation. The strength and resilience of the Chinese economy in the face of the global financial crisis have helped to stabilize the regional economies. China's prosperity contributes to regional and global peace and stability.

"Our bilateral relations have continued to flourish with growing win-win collaboration on many fronts. The China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement that took in effect in January this year will enhance our economic cooperation further. Our bilateral flagship projects -- the Suzhou Industrial Park and the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city -- testify to our strong and deep ties," Lee said.

He added that Singapore greatly values its strong ties with China, and looks forward to the 20th anniversary of Singapore's diplomatic ties with China next year.

Editor: Guo Changdong Source: Xinhua