Commandant of US Coast Guard visits Singapore under MPA’s programme

SINGAPORE: Singapore is playing host to the Commandant of the US Coast Guard, Admiral Robert J. Papp, Jr, under the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s (MPA) Distinguished Visitors Programme from November 23 to 28.

During his visit, Admiral Papp met Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew, MPA’s Chief Executive Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive of MPA, and members of MPA’s senior management.

Maritime issues of mutual interest such as maritime security, protection of the marine environment and other developments at the International Maritime Organisation were discussed.

Mr Lam said the visit will further strengthen ties with the US Coast Guard.

Admiral Papp’s programme also includes a meeting with Commissioner of the Singapore Police Force Ng Joo Hee and Commander of the Singapore Police Coast Guard (PCG) Hsu Sin Yun.

In addition, Admiral Papp will visit the Port Operations Control Centre at PSA Vista where he will be introduced to Singapore’s state—of—the—art Vessel Traffic Information System and PCG’s Integrated Tactical Training Centre.

Admiral Papp assumed the duties of the 24th Commandant of the US Coast Guard on 25 May 2010.

He leads the largest component of the Department of Homeland Security, comprising 42,000 active duty, 8,200 Reserve, 8,000 civilian and 31,000 volunteer Auxiliarists.

— CNA/de