BEIJING:
Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen
says Singapore's efforts in intensifying military relations with China are not
mutually exclusive with its longstanding military ties with the United States.
He
also expressed confidence that both China and the Philippines would continue to
take steps to de-escalate tensions in the South China Sea.
During
his four-day visit to China, Dr Ng met top Chinese defence officials, and both
sides have promised to strengthen military ties.
These
include further exchanges of senior military officials and stepping up
cooperation in non-traditional security areas such as military medicine.
The
pledge comes just as China and its neighbours are facing rising tensions over
maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
Dr
Ng said that during his meetings with Chinese leaders, they made it clear that
China is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
He
added that attempts by China and Singapore to strengthen military ties will be
viewed positively by the US and ASEAN.
That's
because bilateral military relations with different countries are not mutually
exclusive, and isn't about taking sides.
Dr
Ng was speaking at the end of his introductory visit to China.
"China
is a rising power and we recognise that, all countries recognise that they need
to engage China. So if the US itself wants to improve relations with China, how
can Singapore not (do so)? And it's completely understandable. I think all of
us recognise that increasing military-to-military relationships among the
different partners adds to overall stability," he said.
Dr
Ng noted that platforms such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meetings and the
ASEAN Regional Forums allow regional countries to engage, reduce
misunderstanding and the risk of miscalculation.
The
strengthening of military ties between China and Singapore comes at a time when
the US has pledged to increase its military presence in the region.
While
increasing US presence is welcomed, any attempts for US to set up the permanent
bases in the region have been rejected.
-
CNA/de
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