Singapore Government Press Release

Media Relations Division, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts,

MITA Building, 140 Hill Street, 2nd Storey, Singapore 179369

Tel: 6837-9666

REMARKS BY SENIOR MINISTER GOH CHOK TONG AT THE INVESTITURE CEREMONY OF THE ‘HONORARY COMPANION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA’ AWARD, AT 4.00 PM ON TUESDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 2005, AT AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER’S RESIDENCE, 9 WHITE HOUSE PARK

Prime Minister Howard

And Friends,

I must confess my surprise when I was first informed of the Australian Government's intention to bestow this award onto me. During my term as Prime Minister, I had nurtured Singapore's relationship with Australia because I thought it was the natural thing to do. I saw that our strategic interests coincided in many areas. So I actively pursued a policy of advancing our bilateral relations as well as bringing ASEAN and Australia closer. That Australia-Singapore relations are at an all time high is reward enough for me. For my effort to be recognised by your Government is indeed an unexpected tribute. I am especially honoured that Prime Minister Howard has decided to personally confer this award and to do this so soon after my acceptance.

Australia-Singapore relations have grown from strength to strength over the years. But I would be remiss not to credit others for this achievement. Our ties would not have flourished without the conscientious efforts of Prime Minister Howard and his Cabinet colleagues, my Singapore Cabinet colleagues, our officials and the peoples of Australia and Singapore. On behalf of Australians and Singaporeans who have worked tirelessly to foster stronger bonds between our two countries, I humbly accept this award.

John and I have known each other for many years. In fact, we first met before either of us became Prime Minister. We have met regularly since then at APEC and many other multilateral fora, and when we visited each other. During times of regional crises, we would also telephone each other to exchange views.

I know John to be a good listener with an analytical mind. He is a strong leader with clear convictions, a man of courage who is not afraid to take tough decisions in the interests of his people. I saw in him a leader whom I could trust and work with. Hence, we consulted closely on many issues and worked to enhance bilateral cooperation on numerous fronts. Throughout these years, John has not only been a valued colleague, but also a personal friend.

Singapore and Australia as natural partners

Australia and Singapore are natural partners in many areas. Our two countries' close ties and cooperation go well beyond the personal chemistry and relationships between leaders. We enjoy a convergence in political strategic outlook and shared economic interests. We are both committed to free trade, market competition, good governance, peace and security. Singapore and Australia are also partners in our on-going fight against terrorism.

Ties at the government level have expanded with the regular political dialogue involving ministers from the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence now entering its fifth session.

Our economic relations have also flourished. The Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement, Australia's first with an ASEAN country, signalled the importance that Australia placed on Singapore as a trading partner. The agreement also served as a potent catalyst for other free trade arrangements in the Asia Pacific region.

More importantly, we have seen deeper people-to-people links over the years. Australian universities have educated more than 100,000 Singaporeans over the past fifty years, including some of our Ministers. Some 200,000 Singaporeans visited Australia every year over the last decade. This web of interactions adds to the already high comfort level that we enjoy with Australians.

Australia as a member of the region

Australia is an important member of this region, regardless of whether it is considered an Asian or European country. Australia's destiny is intertwined with that of the region. It is therefore advantageous for both Australia and other regional countries to remain actively engaged. Australia played a vital role in the defence of the Malaya Peninsula during the Second World War. Until today, it continues to help maintain regional security through the Five Power Defence Arrangement. Singapore is grateful to Australia for allowing the Singapore Armed Forces to train in your country. Our close bilateral and multilateral defence cooperation has been mutually beneficial to both our countries and the region.

Australia's deep interest in and engagement with the region is not new. Australia became ASEAN's first Dialogue Partner in 1974. It was the first country that ASEAN agreed to meet on a regular basis to discuss political, economic and functional collaboration. Today, with an advanced and robust economy, Australia is well-placed to play an even bigger role in facilitating ASEAN's integration and growth, either through trade and investment or developmental assistance.

The Australian Government's swift and generous contributions to the Tsunami relief efforts and on-going rehabilitation and reconstruction in affected countries are another example of Australia's commitment to its neighbours. You have proven not only to be a reliable partner in the region's development, but also a steadfast and generous friend in our hour of need.

Conclusion

The current depth and breadth of Singapore-Australia relations did not occur by chance. It was achieved through consistent effort and deep resolve by both sides. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to play a part in advancing our countries’ blossoming friendship. I am confident that our warm relations will continue to thrive.

Lastly, I wish to express once again, on behalf of the people of Singapore and on my own behalf, my heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for this honour. Thank you for your steadfast and enduring friendship.

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