Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has written a congratulatory letter to Ms Jacinda Ardern after she was named New Zealand's Prime Minister-elect last week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday (Oct 24).

Ms Adern, 37, will become the world's youngest female leader on Thursday after cutting a deal to form a coalition government following the country's election on Sept 23.

Here is the text of PM Lee's letter:

19 October 2017

Dear Prime Minister-elect,

On behalf of the people of Singapore, I would like to warmly congratulate you on your appointment as Prime Minister of New Zealand. I am confident that you will provide the strong leadership needed to steer New Zealand through challenging times ahead.

Singapore and New Zealand share excellent bilateral relations, underpinned by shared strategic perspectives. We enjoy multifaceted cooperation in the political, economic, defence, science and technology as well as people-to-people spheres. Singapore is also grateful for New Zealand's generous support for the Singapore Armed Forces' training in Waiouru.

I am pleased to note that Singapore and New Zealand have embarked on negotiations for an Enhanced Partnership earlier this year. This paves the way for us to broaden and deepen our cooperation, and solidify our long-standing partnership. Amidst a challenging global climate, it is important for like-minded friends to strengthen their ties. I look forward to your support for the Enhanced Partnership, and hope to work closely with you to further enhance our bilateral ties in the coming years.

I wish you and your government every success, and would like to invite you to make an Official Visit to Singapore.

Yours sincerely
LEE HSIEN LOONG