Australia and Singapore have launched an "upgraded" comprehensive strategic partnership aimed at supporting defence co-operation, AI development and action on climate change.
Lawrence Wong marked his first visit to Australia as Singapore's prime minister on Wednesday, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of ties between the nations.
Mr Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese inked a renewed partnership to "deepen the relationship" between the countries.
First signed a decade ago, the next phase of the partnership will increase defence co-operation, expand economic ties, strengthen pandemic preparedness and furthering partnerships between public services and universities, Mr Albanese said.
Mr Wong said the bilateral agreement should instil confidence between the nations amid growing global uncertainty.
"Australia and Singapore share a common strategic perspective that is built on a deep reservoir of trust," Mr Wong said at a joint press conference in Canberra
Asked whether the partnership could involve a rotation of Australian troops in Singapore, Mr Wong said the details were being worked out.
"We see Australia as a resident power in Asia, and your continued presence in this part of the world contributes to stability and security for all the countries in Asia," Mr Wong said.
"That's why we already have a strong defence partnership, but we are ... providing more support and enhancing access to Singapore's air and naval bases, and this will enable Australia to deploy more of its forces in our part of the world.
"We believe this will be critical and important for Asia's continued stability and security."
Mr Albanese said the bilateral ties would expand further.
"This has been a partnership between leaders, between nations and most importantly between peoples," he said.
"One of the things that makes this relationship so solid is that we know where we're coming from and we know where we're going together."
Mr Wong also extended his condolences to the four Australians who died as a result of the recent Optus network failure.
Mr Wong's Canberra visit included a wreath-laying at the Australian War Memorial and visiting Governor-General Sam Mostyn at Government House.
