SINGAPORE : Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has congratulated US president—elect Barack Obama and his running mate Joseph Biden on their decisive victory, after a long, hard battle.

Mr Lee said the world needed strong US leadership to overcome the deepening economic crisis and conclude the Doha Round of trade negotiations.

He noted other challenges ahead for the US president, including achieving an international agreement on climate change and defeating terrorism.

Mr Lee also encouraged Mr Obama to forge strong ties with ASEAN, as it could help the US keep the peace in the Asia Pacific.

Mr Lee said he looks forward to welcoming Mr Obama when Singapore hosts the APEC Leaders Meeting next year.

In a separate letter to Senator Biden, Mr Lee said he admired Mr Biden’s spirited campaign and was moved by his personal story of overcoming adversity.

Mr Lee said Mr Biden’s experience as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee put him in a unique position to exercise leadership and help chart the way forward.

He noted that that both Singapore and the US enjoyed excellent relations and shared common perspectives on many international issues.

Mr Lee said he looks forward to working with Mr Biden and Mr Obama.