New UK foreign minister visits my country today to discuss trade and security cooperation
British Foreign Minister Cleverly visited my country on Thursday (September 29).
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday (28th), newly appointed James Cleverly will meet with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Huang Xuncai respectively during his visit.
Foreign Minister Dr. Weiwen will also hold a banquet for Cleverly on the evening of the 29th.
The British High Commission in Singapore issued a statement saying that when Cleverly met with Prime Minister Lee, he would reiterate the UK's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Singapore and explore future cooperation on issues such as regional trade and security.
Cleverly will co-host a launch ceremony with Huang Xuncai for the British International Investment (BII) office of the UK development finance agency. BII plans to invest in green infrastructure in the region to support efforts to combat climate change and transition to a green economy. The Singapore office will serve as the hub for BII's expansion in the Indo-Pacific region.
The High Commissioner also said that when Cleverly and Weaven meet, they will express their willingness to upgrade the relationship between Singapore and the UK.
Xinying will also sign a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in regional capacity and resilience building.
During his visit to Singapore, Cleverley will also give a speech at the Milken Institute Asia Summit, outlining the UK's outlook for the Indo-Pacific region.
Cleverly was appointed foreign minister in the new government established by British Prime Minister Truss on September 6. Singapore is the last stop of his first East Asia trip in office. He has visited Japan and South Korea in the past two days.