Oktober 15, 2010

Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong congratulates Chile leader

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has written to Chile President Sebastian Pinera, congratulating him on the successful rescue of the 33 trapped miners. -- ST PHOTO: FRANCIS ONG PG


October 15, 2010 (KATAKAMI / THE STRAITSTIMES) --- PRIME Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong has written to Chile President Sebastian Pinera, congratulating him on the successful rescue of 33 miners trapped in a collapsed mine.

The miners' gripping ordeal began on Aug 5 when a mine under Chile's far northern Atacama desert caved in. The curtains fell on the two-month-long drama on Thursday when the last miner was safely pulled out, sending a world which had been holding its breath into outbursts of joy. 

PM Lee also congratulated Mr Pinera for his 'professional execution of an extremely difficult and riskyoperation'.

' This success would not have been possible without the Chilean government's steady leadership and resolve,' he wrote.

'Many Singaporeans watching the rescue operations have been impressed by the spirit and resilience of the Chilean people.

' We share the joy and celebration of the Chilean people, and especially with the families of the rescued miners. 

'I wish all the rescued miners a speedy recovery to good health.'