Singapore and US strengthen defence partnership following ministerial call
Singapore and the United States have reaffirmed their strong bilateral defence ties following a “good and warm introductory call,” according to Singapore’s Defence Minister, Ng Eng Hen.
In a Facebook post on February 6, Minister Ng shared that he had spoken with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on February 5, congratulating him on his recent appointment.
Hegseth, a decorated veteran and former Fox News personality, was confirmed as the US defence secretary on January 24.
“Very happy and honoured to be able to speak with United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth last night,” the Singapoream lawmaker wrote on Facebook.
“I congratulated him on his appointment but also recognised the immense responsibilities he shouldered over the US military with its global presence and influence.
“Secretary Hegseth expressed appreciation for Singapore’s strong partnership based on shared values and interests; and also our support and facilitation of their assets to rotate through Paya Lebar Air Base and RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base.
“In turn, I thanked him for the training opportunities for our F-16 and F-15SG squadrons and soon to be F-35 detachment in the US.
“Together, we reaffirmed the strong bilateral defence ties and pledged to strengthen cooperation for mutual benefits and regional stability. I welcomed Secretary Hegseth to visit Singapore and to attend the Shangri-La Dialogue. Good and warm introductory call,” he said.
