Arkansas Congressional delegates visited Singapore to boost cooperation in defense, security, and economy. They met with PM Lee and officials to discuss global developments, underscoring the strong partnership between the two nations.
From April 2 to 4, 2023, a Congressional delegation from the United States comprising Senator John Boozman and Representative Stephen Womack, both from Arkansas, visited Singapore to strengthen the long-standing partnership between the two nations. The visit aimed to enhance cooperation in various areas, including defense, security, and economic ties.
During their visit, the delegation had a meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who expressed his condolences for the destruction and loss of life caused by a violent storm in Arkansas and other parts of the US the previous week. Both sides reaffirmed the strong and diverse partnership between Singapore and the US, which includes cooperation in defense, security, and economic areas.
PM Lee expressed appreciation for Arkansas’ support for the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s future F-35B fighter aircraft and the relocated F-16 fighter training detachment at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They also discussed opportunities for further economic cooperation between Singapore and Arkansas, and exchanged their perspectives on key international and regional developments.
Aside from meeting with the Prime Minister, the delegation also had dinner with Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean, and met with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Education and Foreign Affairs Dr. Maliki Osman, Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, and Senior Minister of State for Defence and Manpower Zaqy Mohamad.
The visit highlights the ongoing and strong partnership between Singapore and the United States, as well as the commitment of both sides to deepen cooperation in various areas. The delegation’s visit is expected to enhance the long-standing friendship between the two countries and pave the way for increased collaboration in the future.
Sourced from Singapore MFA
