“The South African government wishes to place on record its appreciation and gratitude for the assistance that Singapore has offered over the years by sharing its developmental experience with South Africa, which has so far benefited hundreds of South African government officials,” said Minister Chabane.

He said Singapore had helped South Africa with skills development under the Singapore Cooperation Programme sponsored by the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Minister Chabane was speaking at the 49th Anniversary of the National Day of Singapore on Friday. The day marks the passing of the Republic of Singapore Independence Act on 9 August 1965, which established the island as an independent and sovereign Republic.

The celebrations were held at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria on Friday evening.

Singapore and South Africa established diplomatic relations in 1992 and to date relations between the two countries have grown.

Available: http://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/singapore-valued-important-partner-sa