MFA Press Statement: Official Visit by Minister George Yeo to the Philippines, 19-22 November 2009

Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo met with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alberto Romulo this afternoon, and had a wide-ranging discussion on bilateral and regional issues. On bilateral relations, Minister Yeo and Secretary Romulo expressed satisfaction with the close and cooperative relationship both countries shared over the past four decades, and are confident that the enduring relationship could be further strengthened in the years ahead. Secretary Romulo thanked Minister Yeo for Singapore's prompt humanitarian assistance offered to the Philippines in the wake of Typhoons Ketsana and Parma. On regional issues, Minister Yeo and Secretary Romulo agreed that Singapore and the Philippines would continue their close partnership and consultations to help make ASEAN an attractive place for more foreign investment. They also agreed on the importance of ASEAN continuing its cooperation with its dialogue partners. Both Ministers also welcomed the US' increasing engagement of the region. Secretary Romulo also hosted Minister Yeo to lunch, which was attended by senior officials of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, as well as some business leaders.

Earlier in the morning Minister Yeo and Secretary Romulo officiated the opening of the new Singapore Embassy in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Manila.

Separately, Minister Yeo also met with former Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro over breakfast for an exchange of views on developments in the Philippines and the region. Minister Yeo then officiated the opening of ACCRALAW Tower, an Ascendas project, also in Bonifacio Global City.

At the closing ceremony of the 10th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention (WCEC) in the afternoon, Minister Yeo received the WCEC flag on behalf of Singapore, which would be hosting the 11th WCEC in 2011.

Later this evening, Minister Yeo and Secretary Romulo will be attending a cultural concert to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Singapore-Philippines bilateral relations.

Minister Yeo will return to Singapore tomorrow.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
21 NOVEMBER 2009