Tharman Honors PM Lee’s Service Ahead of Leadership Handover,In a tribute penned on Monday (May 13), President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore lauded outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for his “sense of duty and integrity, wisdom and compassion.” Shanmugaratnam noted that Lee’s exemplary leadership has set a high standard that will continue to inspire future leaders.
In an exchange of letters formalizing Singapore’s leadership transition, President Tharman acknowledged Mr. Lee’s intention to resign and extended an invitation to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to assume the role of Prime Minister and appoint the next government.
In his letter addressed to Mr. Lee, President Tharman expressed gratitude for four decades of “selfless service” in government, particularly noting Mr. Lee’s 20-year tenure as Prime Minister.
“You advanced a vibrant and more diversified economy. You opened new pathways of opportunity for Singaporeans, improved life for every segment of society, and strengthened our social safety nets,” wrote the President, praising Mr. Lee’s contributions.
President Tharman highlighted Mr. Lee’s contributions in earning Singapore a distinguished global standing characterized by a voice of reason and a steadfast commitment to international law and the global welfare.
President Tharman praised Mr. Lee for instilling confidence in the people to navigate through each crisis while maintaining unity. He credited Mr. Lee with leading Singapore to emerge not only intact but also stronger and more resilient as a nation.
“Your approach to governance has always been to accept differences, find ways to bridge them, and strengthen the common ground. Today, Singapore stands as an open yet cohesive society, even as global trends have moved otherwise.”
“You have also spent years mentoring the next generation of leaders, and ensured a smooth and orderly transition of political leadership.”
