The Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) General (GEN) Songwit Noonpackdee is conducting his introductory visit to Singapore from 29 to 30 May 2024. As part of his visit, GEN Songwit called on Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Heng Chee How at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) this morning. During their meeting, SMS Heng and GEN Songwit reaffirmed the close and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and Thailand, and exchanged views on geopolitical developments in the region.

As part of his introductory visit, GEN Songwit called on Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng after inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF. GEN Songwit also visited SAFTI Military Institute (SAFTI MI), where he received a brief on SAFTI MI and leadership development in the SAF. GEN Songwit will also be attending the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD).

GEN Songwit's visit underscores the strong bilateral defence ties between Singapore and Thailand. Both countries interact regularly through exercises such as Exercise Cobra Gold, professional exchanges, high-level visits, cross-attendance of courses, as well as through multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus. These interactions have strengthened cooperation and deepened mutual understanding between both armed forces.