World hails S'pore's founding father
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World leaders sent birthday greetings to Singapore's former prime minister and political strongman Lee Kuan Yew, who turned 90 yesterday.
Among them were Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and China’s former vice-premier Li Lanqing.
“Yours has been a most eventful life, inextricably interwoven with the history and development of your nation,” said Queen Elizabeth in a message to Lee released by Singapore’s Foreign Ministry.
“It is notable that this year also marks the 50th anniversary of Singapore’s independence from the UK and I am delighted that the links between our countries remain so strong.”
Merkel also hailed Lee’s leadership and achievements, saying Singapore “will remain a key partner for Germany in Asia. For over 50 years you have been a decisive figure helping to shape Singapore’s destiny.
“It is in no small measure thanks to your prudent policy making that the regional association Asean has become a force for reconciliation and stability in Asia. You can look back on your achievements with pride.”
Li, meanwhile, lauded Lee’s “outstanding contributions to the independence and prosperity of Singapore, and to the friendship and cooperation of China and Singapore”.
Lee has dominated Singapore politics for decades, overseeing economic growth that has transformed the city-state into a global financial and manufacturing hub.
