He said China will continue to adhere to its good-neighborly foreign policy, seek substantial cooperation with its neighboring countries and dedicate to forging a peaceful, steady and cooperative environment in the region.

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping (L front) meets with Minister Mentor of Singapore Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Nov. 14, 2010. [Pang Xinglei/Xinhua]

Lee, on his part, spoke highly of China's remarkable achievements and the good momentum of the Singapore-China relations.

Lee, who has visited China for many times, said it is of vital importance for the two sides to maintain close cooperation and learn from each other.

Singapore hails China's progress, said Lee, adding that Singapore is pleased to see a bigger role China plays in the international and regional issues.

After the meeting, Xi and Lee jointly unveiled a commemorative marker of late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping. Later on the night, Xi met with Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng, who also held a welcoming banquet in honor of Xi.

On Monday, Xi is scheduled to hold meetings and talks with Singapore President Sellapan Ramanathan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.

Xi is also set to attend a founding ceremony for a Chinese culture center, and to address a reception marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Singapore.