With the 20th anniversary of their diplomatic ties approaching, China and Singapore on Thursday underlined their commitment to seeking stronger relations.

"As this year marks the 20th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, China would like to work with Singapore to take relations to a new high and contribute to world and regional peace and stability," Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping told visiting Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean.

China and Singapore will mark the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties on Oct. 3, 2010.

Teo said a range of events were being planned for the 20th anniversary with a view to marking and strengthening the relations.

Teo was leading a defense delegation to visit China in his capacity as Singapore's Defense Minister.

In the meeting at Great Hall of the People, Xi described bilateral relations as "robust," saying the two leaderships maintained close contact and communicated effectively on international issues.

Xi highlighted substantial cooperation, including a well-established industrial park in Suzhou city of east China's Jiangsu Province, an eco-city in Tianjin Municipality and some joint high-tech projects.

Facing a complicated and capricious international situation, China and Singapore should take a strategic and long-term view of bilateral relations and deepen cooperation, Xi said.

Teo said Singapore and China were important trade partners for each other and Singapore was glad to see China's active and constructive role in world affairs.

Teo reaffirmed Singapore's adherence to one-China policy and opposition to "Taiwan Independence."

Teo will conclude his China visit on Friday.