Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen is in Germany from 6 to 8 February 2015 to attend the 51st Munich Security Conference, where he spoke on the topic "Pacific Geopolitics: Reaping Promises and Avoiding Perils" as part of a panel discussion.

While in Munich, Dr Ng also met with his European counterparts including French Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Minister of Defence Dr Ursula von der Leyen, Italian Minister of Defence Roberta Pinotti, and UK Secretary of State for Defence Michael Fallon.

Dr Ng and his French counterpart Mr Le Drian reaffirmed both countries' commitment to increasing bilateral defence cooperation, underpinned by the Republic of Singapore Air Force's Advanced Jet Training in France. They also discussed security and political developments of mutual interest.

During the bilateral meeting with Dr von der Leyen, both sides reaffirmed the strong bilateral defence relations between Singapore and Germany. Dr Ng also conveyed Singapore's appreciation for Germany's support for the Singapore Armed Forces' armour training in Germany. They also discussed political and security developments in Europe and Asia.

In his meeting with Ms Pinotti, both Defence Ministers noted the warm and growing defence relations between Singapore and Italy, and exchanged views on security developments and bilateral defence cooperation.

Dr Ng and Mr Fallon reaffirmed the long-standing defence relationship, underscored by a wide range of interactions between the defence establishments of Singapore and the United Kingdom. They also affirmed the importance of the Five Power Defence Arrangements in contributing to strong bilateral relations. Both sides also exchanged views on security issues of mutual interest.

Dr Ng will be addressing the 7th Munich Young Leaders Round Table on "Security Challenges for a New Generation", before wrapping up his official visit to Germany later today.