“As the ASEAN region becomes more visible and plays an increasingly important role in US business operations, the ability for American companies to invest in Singapore and use it as a regional hub for their operations becomes increasingly important,” said Ms. Paulson. “Singapore continues to serve as a vital link for U.S. business interests within the country and into the region.”

In addition to United Technologies, the business delegation also included representatives from Conoco Philips, FedEx, General Electric, InterGen, Northrop Grumman, Philip Morris, and Tyco. “A successful partnership requires mutual commitment. The U.S. and Singapore relationship goes back more than three decades, and continues to become closer and stronger,” said Matthew Daley, Council President and Mission co-Leader.” Milestones such as the U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, signed in 2004, enable American and Singaporean companies to continue to do business in each other’s markets, to the ultimate benefit of consumers in both nations.”

The Council leads business missions to Singapore every year to learn more about the country’s trade and investment priorities, how it is going about pursuing its objectives, and explore where Council member companies might join the effort. Over the course of its two-day mission, the delegation met with Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong; U.S. Ambassador Patricia Herbold; George Yeo, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Teo Chee Hean, Minister of Defence; Li Hng Kiang, Minister of Trade and Industry; Raymond Lim, Minister of Transport; and Mah Bow Tan, Minister of National Development.

In response to the turnout from the Singapore government, Matthew Daley said, “The Singapore government’s accessibility underscores its seriousness and commitment to foreign investors who are doing business here. The number of Council members who are invested in Singapore and who have regional operations here are testament to this dedication and commitment".

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The US-ASEAN Business Council and affiliates are dedicated to strengthening bilateral and US ASEAN relations and building strong economic and commercial ties. Members of the Council include Fortune 1000 companies in support of promoting trade, investment, and technology cooperation, advancing US ASEAN relations through strong participation in public-private partnerships, and committing to development and corporate social responsibility. The Council's members are represented in diverse industries, including aerospace, agribusiness, automobiles, computers and information technology, consumer goods, energy exploration and development, express delivery services, financial services, health care and pharmaceuticals, media & entertainment, mining, software, and telecommunications.

For information on the US-ASEAN Business Council or general information visit www.us-asean.org.