I accept this award humbly on behalf of the Singapore Government and the Ministry of Defence. This award is a strong testament to the deep and growing defence and people-to-people ties between our two countries. 

France has contributed significantly to the security and safety of Singapore. For two decades now, Cazaux (Air Base) has been the training ground for the Republic of Singapore Air Force pilots, who defend the skies above Singapore. Our special forces train together, as iron sharpens iron, against the threat of terrorists. Our scientists and engineers work in each other's laboratories, and together in cyber space, to find new and better ways against those who would do us harm.

You've said that France and Singapore are far apart, indeed. What explains this affinity and commitment to each other? I think certainly, not geography or history. France and Singapore are in different parts of the world, and we do not share a common culture or history. 

And then we are bonded, you said, our hearts beat as one, our strong ties which both Prime Ministers elevated to a strategic partnership in 2012. I think it is based fundamentally on shared universal values and a vision for our individual countries and beyond.

We believe that all our citizens deserve to be happy. Treated fairly and as equals with the freedom to pursue their dreams. We also believe in the importance of unity and fraternity, where each has a duty to the other, and all have the duty to uphold a nation that is open and inclusive. Only when our nation is united and strong, can we then help to build a cohesive and progressive community of nations.

For Singapore as ASEAN Chair this year, we will do our best to advance ASEAN's progress and regional stability. Singapore admires and respects the leading role that France plays in Europe and globally. We welcome France's engagement in the Asia-Pacific region. So, on behalf of Singapore, I want to thank you Minister (Florence) Parly, the French Minister for the Armed Forces, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for that strong commitment in working together with Singapore to achieve our shared goals. May we continue to develop these virtuous and mutually beneficial ties between our two ministries to greater heights.

Thank you very much.