President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (Source :Getty Images)Singapore (VNA) – President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam outlined five key goals for the country’s government to fulfill in 2016 in his opening address to the 13th Parliament on January 15.
President Tony Tan spoke about keeping Singapore safe and secure, renewing the economy, fostering a more caring society, transforming the urban landscape, and engaging and partnering with Singaporeans in nation-building.
The president touched on the deadly attacks in Jakarta on January 14, warning that a similar attack could occur in Singapore. He also called for solidarity and religious harmony among the country’s inhabitants.
Referring to challenges that the country might have to face, the president pointed out the importance of improving Singapore’s economy in order to sustain growth.
The president affirmed that the government will scrutinize election issues and improve the political system in order to build a transparent , effective and responsible government.
In the afternoon session, Halimah Yacob was reelected as Speaker of Singapore.
With 91 Members of Parliament (MPs), including 21 first-time MPs, the first debate of the 13 th Parliament will take place from January 25 to 29.-VNA
