I REFER to the report, "S'pore economy to rebound in 2010" (my paper, March 17).

Whether Singapore can bounce back depends on the following factors:

Political determination of the Obama administration

How successful will its bailouts be on the American economy?

Lack of determination on the administration's part could destabilise the economy.

China's economic policy

It should be determined to maintain the stability of the yuan and to continue stimulating domestic consumption.

It also has to keep its door open to imports.

G-20 collaboration

It must wholeheartedly build a consensus around ways to get out of the economic crisis.

Some G-20 countries believe that the International Monetary Fund needs to restructure itself in order to gain greater trust from its members.

Strong Asean

A cohesive and successful Asean would definitely put Singapore in a more advantageous position to ride on a United States recovery when it happens.

The Government has also taken various measures to help Singapore weather the recession.

It has invested a significant amount from its reserves in stimulus plans to help businesses.

Programmes such as Spur (Skills Programme for Upgrading and Resilience) will definitely help workers stay competitive, so that they will be able to face the challenges of the global economy confidently.

Mr Teo Kueh Liang

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