Shanmugam to meet US Secretary of State Kerry in Washington DC

SINGAPORE : Singapore’s Foreign Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam will be in Washington DC on Tuesday for a four—day visit.

His trip there is at the invitation of newly—appointed US Secretary of State John Kerry.

During his visit, Mr Shanmugam will meet Mr Kerry and US Attorney—General Eric Holder.

He will also meet several members of the US Congress, Senior Administration officials, prominent American strategic thinkers and members of the media.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry said Singapore and the US enjoy "deep and long—standing relations".

Both sides will discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation further.

One example would be through the Singapore—US Third Country Training Programme, signed by both sides last year. This is a joint training programme for Southeast Asian countries in three areas — ASEAN connectivity, sustainable development and regional resilience.

Talks are also expected to cover regional and international developments, particularly the US’ continued strong engagement of Asia, the ASEAN—US relationship and the ongoing negotiations on the Trans—Pacific Partnership Agreement.

— CNA/ms