The reported planned meeting between Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Singapore - the first meeting between top leaders of the two sides since 1949 - shows how Singapore is a suitable place for important international meetings because of its neutral position that can contribute to regional and international peace ("Taiwan's Ma to meet Xi in Singapore: Report"; yesterday).

Any conflict between Taiwan and China will not only harm both sides but the region as well.

China is the main engine of international economic growth, and everyone would like this engine to continue to be strong to benefit the world.

I hope the meeting, to be held on Saturday, will be successful for both sides, and that Singapore will be remembered as the place where this success was achieved.

Sim Lim Onn