SINGAPORE — Despite growing political uncertainties in the United States, Singapore’s trade and security ties with the superpower can continue to thrive, thanks to the strong relationships the Republic has cultivated over the years, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen has said.

In an interview at the end of a three-day visit to Washington this week, Dr Ng told Channel NewsAsia that the senior US officials, lawmakers and academics he met on the trip gave “very good guide posts and strong assurances that (we) can call on them if need be”.

“I am optimistic that even with the increased uncertainties over the coming years, we will be able to tide it over and we will be able to position Singapore’s security or trade in a better position because of the strong support we have cultivated over the years,” the Minister added.

Dr Ng visited Washington from April 2 to 5, during which he met his US counterpart James Mattis, as well as senior lawmakers such as Senator John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. He also met US lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle, including Senators Jack Reed and Ted Cruz, as well as Representatives Robert Wittman, Paul Cook and Ami Bera.

The Minister said he had a “very productive” meeting with Mr Mattis, who reaffirmed Singapore-US relations. 

Last weekend, CNN reported that US Deputy National Security Adviser K T McFarland has been offered the post of US ambassador to Singapore. 

Asked to shed light on who could be appointed following his meeting with Mr Mattis, Dr Ng noted that he was “not in the remit of the Department of Defence to talk about the next US Ambassador (to Singapore). 

“But let me just say this. We’ve had very good US ambassadors in the past to Singapore. We were very productive. We’ve understood the basis of our relationships. So I don’t expect this to be any different. I look forward to the next US ambassador making a positive contribution ... Whoever he or she may be.” 

Dr Ng was also asked for his views on the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Florida, Dr Ng said it was a good development that the two global leaders were meeting face-to-face.

He added: “From Singapore’s perspective, it would be healthy for the US and China to agree to avoid trade wars, to find agreements to help both sides grow economically. Because from Singapore’s perspective, we benefit whenever global trade goes up.”