Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen called on Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission General (GEN) Xu Qiliang earlier this morning. Both sides reaffirmed the long-standing, warm and friendly bilateral and defence relationship between Singapore and China, and exchanged views on global security issues and regional architecture.

Dr Ng and GEN Xu acknowledged the significant progress made in the bilateral defence relationship, particularly in recent years. GEN Xu commended the signing of the enhanced Agreement on Defence Exchanges and Security Cooperation yesterday between Singapore and China which will help raise the level of bilateral defence cooperation. He said that the relationship between the two countries was long-standing and looked forward to furthering defence cooperation between the two countries, and with ASEAN and the region.  Dr Ng also congratulated GEN Xu on the contribution of the People's Liberation Army to the celebration of the 70th Anniversary of the People's Republic of China and the impressive Opening Ceremony at the 7th CISM Military World Games last Friday in Wuhan.

Dr Ng's visit to China reflects the growing defence ties between both countries. Both armed forces and the defence establishment interact regularly through numerous bilateral and multilateral exercises, high-level visits, professional exchanges, port calls, and the cross-attendance of courses and seminars. Dr Ng will speak at the 9th Beijing Xiangshan Forum tomorrow, at the plenary session titled "Interests of Small and Medium-Sized Countries and Common Security".