Former Prime Minister Shaheed Benazir Bhutto is among the world leaders who featured in a unique book highlighting a Singapore's tradition of naming the new orchid hybrids after the visiting foreign dignitaries.

Written by renowned author and editor Koh Buck Song and launched by Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, the book showcases the intricate process of hybridization of orchid, the national flower of Singapore.

The first-of-its-kind book highlights 'Dendrobium', which was named after former Prime Minister Shaheed Benazir Bhutto who had paid an official visit to Singapore from March 7-9, 1995.

During his address at the book launch, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan said that the orchid diplomatic practice dated back to 1956. He said over 280 orchid hybrids have been named after foreign dignitaries and international organizations as gestures of goodwill and friendship.