MFA Press Statement: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan's Participation in the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Global Coalition on the Defeat of ISIS and Meeting with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in Washington D.C., 22 March 2017

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan had a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and participated in the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Global Coalition on the Defeat of ISIS hosted by Secretary Tillerson in Washington D.C. on 22 March 2017. 

Minister Balakrishnan and Secretary Tillerson reaffirmed the deep and multi-faceted relations between Singapore and the US, spanning the defence, economic and security spheres.  Minister Balakrishnan and Secretary Tillerson also discussed regional developments as well as ways in which the US could build on its enduring strategic and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific and strengthen its engagement of ASEAN. 

Singapore welcomes the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers hosted by Secretary Tillerson.  Countering terrorism and violent extremism is a key concern for Singapore and the region, given the risks posed by returning ISIS fighters as well as ISIS’ radical propaganda in Southeast Asia.  Singapore has consistently supported the Coalition’s efforts through contributions of military assets and personnel, and believes in the need for a comprehensive response that encompasses addressing economic, social and political factors.

Minister Balakrishnan will also meet Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Bob Corker (R-Tennessee) before departing the US for Singapore tomorrow. 

.    .    .    .     .

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

23 MARCH 2017

Meeting between US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, 22 March 2017. [Photo credit: MFA]