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Australia and Singapore have committed to continuing defence cooperation, which includes an offer to host Australian nuclear-powered submarines, ahead of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne.
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Areas of ongoing collaboration include continued support for Singapore Armed Force training in Australia and progress in the Australia – Singapore Military Training Initiative, which includes plans to expand Shoalwater Bay.
A joint statement for the meeting also outlined Singapore’s commitment to supporting Australian maritime vessels, now set to include Australia’s conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines.
“The leaders noted Australia’s commitment to responsible nuclear stewardship and setting the highest non-proliferation standard in relation to its acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS,” the statement read.
“The leaders acknowledged Singapore’s offer to host Australia’s conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines for port visits once ready.”
The pair also confirmed their support for the Five Power Defence Arrangements and “acknowledged” Singapore’s continued support for Australian aircraft and ships in the region.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met his Singaporean counterpart, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, during the 9th Australia-Singapore Annual Leaders’ Meeting, ahead of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne.
Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister Lee reiterated Singapore’s position on the South China Sea.
“We have an interest in freedom of navigation and the application of international law, including UNCLOS, on South China Sea issues, because it's a vital artery for international trade for us.
“Other countries, there are four ASEAN members who have claims, who are claimant states in the South China Sea. And these claims overlap with each other and overlap with claims by China.
“So the positions we take on those claims are different depending on where we stand, and Singapore takes no position on the claims, but we have a strong view on international law and on freedom of navigation, which we have stated many times.”
The details come as Prime Minister Albanese announces the establishment of a $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility, providing loans, guarantees, equity and insurance to boost Australian trade with Southeast Asia.
“Australia’s economic future lies in our region,” the Prime Minister said.
“I am proud to lead a government that is strengthening our trade and investment ties with Southeast Asia, directly contributing to our shared economic prosperity.
“These initiatives represent further investments in our future and ensure we are working with Southeast Asia as it continues to grow in economic size and reach.
“When our region prospers, Australia prospers.
“Our work internationally is delivering for Australians – for jobs, for our economy and for our people.”
