Delegation members from the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore with Foreign Minister Julie Bishop

Last week, the parliament hosted the Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore, Madam Halimah Yacob, and a delegation from her country. The delegation took advantage of the new direct flights between Canberra and Singapore, visiting Canberra during their three day visit.

The long-anticipated visitors held meetings with Foreign Minister Julie Bishop MP and Shadow Foreign Minister Senator the Hon Penny Wong, as well as meetings relating to women and social services issues and parliamentary procedure. The delegation was also interested in the design and visitor services to Parliament House, undertaking meetings and tours, and viewing the Republic of Singapore’s gift of a sculpture to the Parliament of Australia to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Australia/Singapore relations in 2015.

As guests of the President and Speaker of the Parliament, the delegation attended Question Time and observed at close hand the difference between our two systems of government and parliamentary operations.

The delegation also toured the Australian War Memorial, particularly interested in the exhibitions relating to WWII conflict in Singapore, especially viewing the Singapore surrender table. Madam Speaker then laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Solider on behalf of the people of Singapore.