The Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces (SwAF), General (GEN) Sverker Goranson, called on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at the Ministry of Defence this morning.

GEN Goranson, who is in Singapore for an introductory visit from 21 to 24 Mar 2010, also called on Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek today. Yesterday, GEN Goranson visited Changi Naval Base, where he was briefed on the Republic of Singapore Navy's operations, as well as the Army's Medical Services Headquarters at Nee Soon Camp.

GEN Goranson's visit underscores the close and long-standing defence ties between Singapore and Sweden. The SwAF has provided strong support for the build up of the Singapore Armed Forces' submarine capabilities in Sweden. Both armed forces cooperate regularly on a broad range of activities, which include professional exchanges, visits, defence technology transfers and bilateral activities, such as Exercise Lejon Singa - an annual Mine-Countermeasure Exchange Programme. These regular interactions help to strengthen mutual understanding and professional ties among the personnel of the two armed forces.