Chinese President Hu Jintao met on Friday with Singaporean President S. R. Nathan, who is to attend activities related to the Beijing Olympic Games.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (right) shakes hands with Singaporean President S. R. Nathan during their meeting in Beijing on Friday, August 15, 2008. [Photo: Xinhua]

Hu spoke highly of Nathan's long-term dedication to promoting the friendly relations between the two countries, and wished the Singaporean athletes have good performance at the Beijing Games.

Nathan recalled the opening day of the Beijing Olympics, saying it was a day of pride for all Asians.

Nathan said he had visited the Beijing Olympic Village, where all athletes live in harmony and it embodies China's concept of a harmonious world.

China's development benefits Singapore and Asia at large, Nathan said, adding that his country would stand together with China.

The Singaporean president arrived in Beijing on Tuesday afternoon to start his five-day stay in China.

(Xinhua News Agency August 15, 2008)