Lee Hsien Loong, the Singapore Prime Minister, is now in the US as a part of his official visit. The Prime Minister met US President Donald Trump on Monday and discussed on the vitality of having a strong diplomatic relationship between the two countries. Here are five major takeaways from the Prime Minister's visit to the US.
Singapore clears its stand on the North Korean issue
According to reports, Lee Hsien Loong has asked Donald Trump to increase the pressure on North Korea over its nuclear program. Lee added that it is always wise to use talks to resolve the conflict instead of using military means.
"Pressure is necessary, but so is dialogue. The US will need to work with others, including China, South Korea and Japan and Russia, to resolve the issue," said the Singapore Prime Minister.
"We strongly oppose the nuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, as it affects the peace and stability of the region. And like the U.S., we condemn the DPRK's dangerous provocations. These pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and stability," said Lee.
The statement from Lee came just a week after Trump gave a strong warning to Pyongyang. Calling North Korean Supreme Leader, the 'rocket man', Trump said that only 'one thing will work with North Korea' indicating a possible military action.
The airplane deal between SIA and Boeing
Lee and Trump also witnessed the signing of an agreement between Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong and Boeing president Kevin McAllister. As per this agreement, the SIA will purchase 39 Boeing aircrafts worth 13.8 billion USD.
After the agreement, Donald Trump said that this deal will fetch more than 70,000 job opportunities in the US. Trump also thanked Singapore for trusting American engineers and American workers.
Prime Minister Lee said that it is a 'win-win' for both the sides. Lee added that the new additions from Boeing will modernize SIA's fleet, and will also increase the job opportunities for American citizens.
Singapore: The close strategic partner of the US in Asia
US President Donald Trump in a statement issued said that Singapore is one of US's close strategic partners in Asia.
"Singapore is one of our closest strategic partners in Asia. The United States is proud of the deep and enduring partnership we have built since Singapore gained its independence more than half-a-century ago," said Trump.
Trump also lauded Singapore for its glorious journey from a poor island nation to an economic powerhouse. He also thanked the Singapore Government for providing the much-needed support when Hurricane Harvey hit the Gulf coast of US.
Military ties between Singapore and the US
Prime Minister Lee said that Singapore is quite happy to hold military ties with the United States.
"Our defense ties are very strong. Singapore supports a military presence in Asia. Since 1990, we have hosted USAF and Navy aircraft and ships on rotational deployments. We thank the U.S. for hosting more than 1,000 Singapore military personnel each year in training detachments in the United States," said Lee.
Lee added that it is Singapore's privilege to help the US citizens during the devastating Hurricane Harvey.
Prime Minister Lee's stay at Blair House
Staying at Blair House is a dream for all world leaders, and now Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has emerged as the first South Asian leader who got the privilege to stay at this legendary building. Before Lee, world leaders like Narendra Modi, Vladimir Putin and Justin Trudeau have stayed at Blair House.
