The Chief of the Defence Force of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Mark Binskin called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence this morning. ACM Binskin, who is in Singapore for his introductory visit from 30 July to 2 August 2015, also called on Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Ng Chee Meng earlier after inspecting a Guard of Honour. ACM Binskin will visit the Multi-Mission Range Complex and speak to students at the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College as part of the Distinguished Speakers' Programme later today.

The visit by ACM Binskin underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Australia. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the ADF share a long history of military cooperation, with extensive interactions  in bilateral and multilateral training exercises, mutual visits, professional exchanges, and the cross-attendance of professional courses. The two armed forces have also worked together in close partnership in multinational operations such as the reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. Such extensive interactions have not only enhanced the professionalism of the two armed forces, but also strengthened the mutual understanding and friendship between the personnel of both armed forces. Both countries will be working together to further strengthen defence ties, in line with the spirit of the Singapore-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership signed by both Prime Ministers on 29 June 2015.