Singapore is going to play a pivotal role in the Asian growth of battered United States-based bank Citigroup as it emerges from the shadow of the global downturn.

The banking behemoth, which is one- third owned by the US government following its receipt of US$45 billion in bailout funds, sees its highly profitable Asian operations being at the heart of its latest growth plans.

During a wide-ranging interview with The Straits Times, Citigroup chief executive Vikram Pandit said the changes afoot included an enhanced role for Singapore as the bank grows it presence outside of the US, and in its restructuring plans.

"We have always viewed Singapore as an integral part of not just our strategy for Asia, but our broader global strategy," said Mr Pandit, who was visiting Singapore for the first time as Citigroup CEO.