Ian Goodenough (Moore, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The 9th of August marked the 50th anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Singapore. On behalf of the Australian parliament, I would like to formally express our congratulations to the people of Singapore on reaching this significant national milestone. Australia shares an important international relationship with Singapore as strategic partners within our region. Singapore is Australia's fifth largest trading partner in terms of two-way trade. The Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement has been in place since July 2003. Our nations also cooperate in the area of defence and intelligence, including joint military training exercises.

We share an admiration for the nation building that has occurred over the past 50 years in terms of economic development, the transformation of Singapore into an international financial centre of commerce, and its urbanisation into a vibrant metropolis. We marvel at the construction of world-class port facilities, refineries and an efficient transportation system, and social reforms such as public housing and a universal superannuation scheme for its citizens. Australian visitors often remark at its cleanliness, sophistication, and high standard of law and order. Singapore shares a heritage similar to our own, combining the British Westminster system with its own Eastern philosophies and a strong work ethic. The future looks promising, with improved cooperation and stronger ties between our nations. Congratulations to the people of Singapore. (Time expired)