Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today wrapped up a successful visit to Singapore, where he held talks with his counterpart Kasiviswanathan Shanmugam and Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean.

He also delivered a speech on Canadian engagement in Asia as part of the International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Fullerton lecture series. In his speech, he noted Canada’s common interests with the Asia-Pacific region, and the collective need to deepen engagement in an unstable world.

“In this hyper-connected world, a prosperous Asia means a more prosperous world,” said Baird. “What happens in Asia is now instantly felt across the globe. That means we not only have a stake in Asia’s prosperity, but also in its peace and security, and in its governance.”

Singapore is Canada’s current Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Coordinating Country and Trans-Pacific Partnership partner. More than 100 Canadian companies have established a regional presence in Singapore.

“Canada’s engagement with Singapore is a benchmark for the region”, said Baird. “As we approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, I’m confident that this engagement will grow even stronger.”

The next visit on Minister Baird’s Asia tour will be to Jakarta, Indonesia. For updates on the trip, consultBaird to Travel to East Asia to Talk Security and Prosperity.

src:news.gc.ca