In response to media queries on the Joint Press Statement on Follow up to the ASEAN-US Enhanced Partnership that was released this evening, the MFA spokesman said:
"This is a significant development. The US has played a unique and irreplaceable role in promoting stability and growth in East Asia, and ASEAN and the US have enjoyed a long standing, close and fruitful relationship.
Next year, we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN US Dialogue relations and the Joint Statement reflects our commitment to raising this key partnership to a new plane.
Singapore is currently the Country Coordinator for ASEAN US relations. We look forward to working with our ASEAN and US friends to implement the many important ideas contained in the Joint Statement."
A copy of the Joint Press Statement is attached for reference.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
17 NOVEMBER 2006