General Songwit Noonpackdee reaffirms strong bilateral defence ties during his visit to Singapore.
Singapore, 30 May 2024 – General (GEN) Songwit Noonpackdee, Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF), is conducting an introductory visit to Singapore from May 29 to 30, 2024. During his visit, GEN Songwit called on Senior Minister of State for Defence Heng Chee How at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF). They discussed and reaffirmed the close and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and Thailand, and exchanged views on regional geopolitical developments.
GEN Songwit’s itinerary included a call on Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng after inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF. He also visited the SAFTI Military Institute (SAFTI MI), where he received a briefing on the institute and leadership development within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Additionally, GEN Songwit is scheduled to attend the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD).
GEN Songwit’s visit highlights the robust defence ties between Singapore and Thailand. Both countries regularly engage in joint exercises such as Exercise Cobra Gold, professional exchanges, high-level visits, and cross-attendance of military courses. They also collaborate through multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus. These interactions have strengthened cooperation and deepened mutual understanding between the armed forces of Singapore and Thailand.
Source – MINDEF
