The continued strength and importance of the relationship is demonstrated through practical cooperation in Afghanistan, combined training and exercises along with the facilitation of Singapore's use of Shoalwater Bay Training Area, Oakey and RAAF Pearce. Australia and Singapore are also members of the Five Power Defence Arrangements and ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting - Plus.
In 2012, the Australian and Singaporean Armies will conduct Staff Talks, Advanced Military Free Fall Training, Exercise Matilda in Darwin, Exercise Wallaby in Shoalwater Bay, Urban Operations Training in Singapore and other short term individual exchanges.
The recent visit by Major General Ravinder Singh provided an excellent opportunity to further enhance our relationship through senior leadership dialogue.
Major General Singh conducted office calls with the Australian Chief of the Defence Force, Chief of Army, Special Operations Commander, Chief of Joint Operations and the Commander Forces Command.
Major General Singh was delighted with the understanding he gained on how Army has restructured and is moving forward with Plan BEERSHEBA. The outcomes from this visit will help shape the future Army engagement plan and further align combined cooperation and training efforts.
While the program was busy, it did allow Major General Singh a few moments to enjoy the perfect weather turned on by both Canberra and Sydney.