Rescue teams from Singapore and China have enjoyed good cooperation in their relief work in Indonesia's Banda Aceh, according to Singapore's Defence Minister.

Minister Teo Chee Hean told reporters from Xinhua News Agency Friday that the rescue teams have been able to work side by side and share experiences.

"We are happy to assist the rescue group from China to transport from Medan to Banda Aceh at the time when transportation to Banda Aceh was very difficult," said Teo, adding that he has seen Chinese rescuers doing a good job on the ground.

Interviewed by foreign journalists, Teo reviewed Singapore's relief efforts to disaster-hit countries, especially to Indonesia, and focus the island state's role on building the transportation pipeline to Meulaboh by road or by sea.

"Our critical role is to open the door (to Meulaboh) and make the door wide enough for others," said Teo, adding that the Indonesians should take over the major reconstruction efforts afterwards and Singapore will help in whatever way it can.

So far Singapore has dispatched two helicopter landing ships, 6"Chinook" heavy helicopters and several medium and light helicopters with heavy equipment, such as water purification plant, as well as food and medicine to Banda Aceh and Meulaboh. About 900Sinagporeans are working on the ground.

(Xinhua News Agency January 8, 2005)