SINGAPORE, February 15, 2023 – In a bid to enhance regional cooperation and address pressing global challenges, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with ASEAN neighbors.
During the 34th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cambodia, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stressed the importance of collective action in addressing issues such as climate change, non-traditional security threats, and pandemics. The Prime Minister emphasized that regional cooperation is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
To this end, MFA has been actively engaging with ASEAN member states on key issues such as economic integration, disaster management, and counter-terrorism. For instance, Singapore and Indonesia have strengthened their maritime cooperation through the establishment of a joint task force to address piracy and armed robbery at sea.
Singapore has also played an active role in the regional community, serving as the current Chairman of ASEAN's Economic Community (AEC) Working Group. The country's participation in this role aims to promote economic integration among ASEAN member states and enhance their competitiveness in the global economy.
Furthermore, Singapore has been actively engaging with international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address pressing global issues. The country has been a vocal advocate for sustainable development, climate action, and human rights.
In addition, MFA has been working closely with other countries to promote regional peace and security. Singapore's overseas missions have been actively engaged in promoting bilateral relations with neighboring countries, while also supporting international efforts to address global challenges such as counter-terrorism and cybersecurity threats.
Overall, Singapore's commitment to strengthening partnerships with ASEAN neighbors reflects the country's dedication to promoting regional cooperation and addressing pressing global challenges.
### Key Partnerships:
• ASEAN-EU Partnership: MFA has been actively engaging with the European Union (EU) on key issues such as climate action, sustainable development, and human rights.
• Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity: Singapore has played an active role in shaping this new regional economic framework aimed at promoting free trade and investment in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Maritime Cooperation: MFA has been strengthening maritime cooperation with ASEAN member states through joint task forces and other initiatives to address piracy, armed robbery, and other maritime security threats.
### Conclusion
Singapore's commitment to strengthening partnerships with ASEAN neighbors reflects the country's dedication to promoting regional cooperation and addressing pressing global challenges. By engaging actively with international organizations and promoting bilateral relations with neighboring countries, Singapore is playing a vital role in shaping the future of regional and global affairs.