MFA Press Statement: Official Visit by PM Lee Hsien Loong to the USA, 31 July to 5 August 2016

OFFICIAL VISIT BY PRIME MINISTER LEE HSIEN LOONG TO
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 31 JULY TO 5 AUGUST 2016

        Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is currently on an official visit to the United States at the invitation of President Barack Obama. 

        PM was received at a welcome ceremony at the Pentagon where he was hosted to lunch by US Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter.  They re-affirmed the strong and long-standing defence cooperation between Singapore and the United States, and discussed ways to further strengthen defence relations.  They also exchanged views on key regional and global developments, including the fight against terrorism.  Carter expressed appreciation for Singapore’s steadfast support for the US’ engagement of Asia and contributions towards the Counter-ISIL Coalition.  Earlier in the morning, Carter and PM participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. 

        PM also received a call by US Secretary of the Treasury Jacob Lew.  They discussed ways to enhance the strong economic ties between Singapore and the United States through closer cooperation on bilateral tax issues.  They also had a wide-ranging discussion on regional and global economic developments.   

        US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker also called on PM.  They reaffirmed the robust bilateral economic relationship and welcomed the signing of the MOU establishing the US-Singapore Collaboration Platform, which would allow US and Singapore companies to explore cooperation in third-party markets.  They also exchanged views on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), particularly the importance of its timely ratification.           

        Before the meeting with Pritzker, PM attended a reception hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-ASEAN Business Council.  In his speech, PM focused on the economic opportunities in Singapore and the region, and the importance of the US’ engagement of Asia, including through the TPP. 

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

2 AUGUST 2016