SHANGHAI: Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean on Friday lauded China for the progress it has made in its leadership succession planning, calling it the 'most impressive' development of the country in the last 30 years.

As he opened a new leadership forum between Singapore and Chinese leaders, he also stressed that both countries share the similar challenge of continually finding capable people.

'From the experience of our two countries, it is clear that the key to success is good governance. Good governance requires capable and committed men and women at the top echelons of government,' he said on his maiden overseas trip since assuming the DPM position on Wednesday.

Noting that he first came to Shanghai and neighbouring Jiangsu province 25 years ago, he remarked that the physical change of the growing metropolis has been exceptional and impressive.

'But what has been most impressive is the development of successors, new generation of leaders at city level, provincial level, moving on to national leadership positions,' said Mr Teo, speaking at the launch of the inaugural China-Singapore Forum on Leadership Selection and Development.