Stronger RI-S'pore ties

Stronger RI-S'pore ties

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's realism is an essential part of the many qualities that he brings to his job. In a lecture during his visit to Singapore this week, he said that countries must adapt to a new, competitive world environment. Commending the ability of China, Vietnam and the United States to change, he declared that Indonesia, too, could not escape the need to adapt itself to an evolving world.

Beyond economics and security, good personal ties between the leaders of the two countries help to cement their friendship. During his visit, the Indonesian leader had warm words for Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, whom he values as a friend. This personal note is an upbeat element in a bilateral relationship that has seen downs as well as ups, often sharp.

Looking ahead, there is no denying that Susilo will face challenges in his fight against the corruption and inefficiency that keep Indonesia from realizing its full potential. But Singaporeans stand by their Indonesian neighbors in the quest for a better future for both countries.

-- The Straits Times, Singapore