On September 14, 2001, Li Ruihuan, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, met with Singaporean President Nathan, who is on a state visit to China.

Li first extended a warm welcome to President Nathan for his visit to China. He said that Nathan is an old friend of the Chinese people and has always paid close attention to the constant development of Singapore-China relations. We appreciate that. Li recalled his visit to Singapore in 1995, saying the country’s friendly people, beautiful scenery, and advanced management expertise impressed him deeply, the fine combination between traditional and modern cultures, and between eastern and western cultures in particular.

He noted that China and Singapore have historical relations and their relationship has been very good. There have been constant high-level contacts and increasing exchanges between the two sides, with which the Chinese government and people are satisfied.

Touching upon the international situation, Li said that China sincerely loves peace. The Chinese people was bullied by Western powers and suffered gravely from wars in the past century and therefore, they strongly yearn for peace. Peace is of utmost necessity to China. China’s modernization demands Chinese people's concentration, exchanges with all countries, learning from advanced foreign expertise and an international environment with lasting peace and friendship. Any act that wrecks peace in the world constitutes a grave violation of the fundamental interests of the world people, including the Chinese people. China is dedicated to safeguarding peace. The Chinese nation cherishes the notion that “Harmony is supreme” and “Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you”. Never will China impose on others the sufferings that it experienced and China will never pursue hegemonism. A strong China will be a positive force for safeguarding world peace and stability.

Nathan fully agreed with Li on his assessment of bilateral relations. He said that he is very glad to meet Li in Beijing. He recalled his first visit to China in 1976 and said he is greatly impressed by the new look China has taken on. Referring to China's great efforts to improve its people's lives and the remarkable achievements in its reform and opening-up in the past 20-plus years, Nathan said that the progress has not only been in the material field, but also in the intellectual field like the legal system. China, as an influential country in the world, has found a development path suited to its own conditions. He wished China greater success in various fields.

Nathan said that his country attaches great importance to its relations with China, and will further strengthen all-round cooperation with China in bilateral and multi-lateral fields.

Nathan expressed congratulations on Beijing's successful bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games and the belief that China will make it a successful international sports event.