Call on PM Lee Hsien Loong by Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop on 20 May 2015

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop called on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Istana this morning. Prime Minister Lee and Minister Bishop agreed that cooperation between the two countries was on an upward trajectory and noted that the Singapore-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, once concluded, would serve as an important milestone for bilateral relations.  Prime Minister Lee and Minister Bishop also welcomed the various initiatives planned in Singapore and Australia to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year, including the loan of four koala bears to the Singapore Zoo. Prime Minister Lee conveyed Singapore’s appreciation to Australia for the loan.

Prime Minister Lee and Minister Bishop had a fruitful exchange on regional and international developments. Minister Bishop also briefed Prime Minister Lee on domestic developments in Australia.

Minister Bishop is in Singapore on a one-day working visit and leaves today.

* * * * *