Remarks With Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew Before Their Meeting

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Treaty Room
Washington, DC
October 26, 2009

SECRETARY CLINTON: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m delighted to welcome the minister mentor here today. He is no stranger to our country. Singapore is a long and valued partner on so many important issues. And I think it is fair to say, sir, that you have a great many admirers. You’re here to accept an important award that is given for lifetime achievement, and I join in the many Americans who thank you for your service.

MINISTER MENTOR YEW: Thank you very much, Secretary of State. I have come at a very important moment in America. It’s a time for renewal and resumption of the engagement of America, and particularly Southeast Asia and East Asia. It is a part of the world that will alter the shape of the 21st century.

SECRETARY CLINTON: And so we have our work cut out for us here. (Laughter.) Thank you.