Singapore - Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was set to kick off his visit Tuesday in Singapore by laying a wreath in remembrance of Allied soldiers who died in South-East Asia during the two world wars.

Rudd, in his first official visit to the city-state as prime minister, was scheduled to meet with the top leaders after visiting Kranji war cemetery.

He was expected to focus on defence, national security and trade during meetings with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.

Following the one-day stop in Singapore, Rudd returns to Australia after seven days abroad. (dpa)