Chief of Defence Staff of the French Armed Forces Admiral (ADM) Édouard Guillaud called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen this morning.

ADM Guillaud, who is in Singapore from 30 May to 2 June 2013 for an introductory visit in conjunction with the 12th Shangri-La Dialogue, had earlier called on Chief of Defence Force Major-General (MG) Ng Chee Meng after inspecting a Guard of Honour at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF). During the bilateral meeting, the two defence chiefs acknowledged the strong and broad-based defence relations between Singapore and France and reaffirmed their commitment to continue to build closer ties. During his visit, ADM Guillaud also visited Changi Naval Base and 121 Squadron at Changi Air Base.

The French Armed Forces and the Singapore Armed Forces interact regularly through exercises, professional exchanges, and cross-attendance of courses. The Republic of Singapore Air Force also has a detachment in Cazaux Air Base in France, where it conducts its Advanced Jet Training for fighter pilots. These wide-ranging interactions have bolstered the friendship and mutual understanding among the personnel of the two armed forces.