Singapore - Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong Wednesday congratulated Abhisit Vejjajiva on being appointed Thailand's new prime minister, and urged the need to discuss the global financial crisis at the upcoming summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"There is much that we need to discuss at the ASEAN summit, particularly given the financial crisis that has affected the world. I am heartened that you have said that you favour an early summit," said Lee in a congratulatory letter.

Abhisit, 44, leader of the Democrat Party, which had been in opposition since 2001, won the premiership Monday by a vote in the lower house of parliament in an attempt to end Thailand's ongoing political crisis. His election became official Wednesday after a royal endorsement by Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Prior to his election, Abhisit pledged to host the next ASEAN summit in February.

"I look forward to working with you to strengthen our bilateral relations, as well as to advance regional cooperation during Thailand's chairmanship of ASEAN," Lee said.

"Our two countries share a common interest on many regional and international issues, particularly our commitment to a more integrated ASEAN," said Lee, inviting Abhisit to make an introductory visit to Singapore. (dpa)