Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen is in France for an introductory visit. Dr Ng met French Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian this evening (Singapore time) at the Hôtel de Brienne, Ministère de la Défense. During the meeting, Dr Ng and Mr Le Drian reaffirmed both countries' commitment to increasing bilateral defence cooperation as well as discussed security and political developments of mutual interest. As part of his programme, Dr Ng will also visit the French Analysis Centre for Defensive Cyber Operations later today.

Dr Ng's visit underscores the strong and broad-based defence relationship between Singapore and France, which is underpinned by the Republic of Singapore Air Force's Advanced Jet Training in France, as well as regular professional interactions between the armed forces and defence establishments from both sides. These wide-ranging interactions, comprising high-level meetings, exercises and cross attendance of courses and dialogues, have strengthened the friendship and mutual understanding between Singapore and France.