Australian Secretary of Defence Makes Introductory Visit to Singapore

Australian Secretary of Defence Dennis Richardson calling on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence.

Australian Secretary of Defence Dennis Richardson called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence this morning. Mr Richardson, who is in Singapore for his introductory visit from 17 to 18 February 2013, also called on Permanent Secretary (Defence) Chiang Chie Foo yesterday. Mr Richardson will also visit Sembawang Air Base, as well as the Changi Command and Control Centre at Changi Naval Base, later this afternoon.

Mr Richardson's visit underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Australia. The Singapore Armed Forces and the Australian Defence Force have a long history of military cooperation including the ongoing cooperation in Afghanistan, and extensive interactions in the form of bilateral exercises, visits, professional exchanges, and the cross-attendance of courses. Both defence establishments also interact at multilateral forums such as the Five Power Defence Arrangements, the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus and Shangri-La Dialogue.

Mr Richardson (centre) onboard a Super Puma for a familiarisation ride during a unit visit to Sembawang Air Base.

Mr Richardson (second from right) being briefed at the Information Fusion Centre during a unit visit to the Changi Command and Control Centre at Changi Naval Base.