SINGAPORE – 15-16 March 2023
In a significant move to strengthen regional cooperation and global engagement, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) played host to a high-level diplomatic gathering in the city-state. The event brought together senior officials from ASEAN nations, as well as key partners from around the world.
At the heart of the meeting was a renewed commitment by Singapore to support the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which aims to create a single market and production base by 2025. MFA officials emphasized the importance of cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and economic connectivity, as well as addressing pressing regional issues like climate change, maritime security, and pandemics.
Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, led a high-level delegation to ASEAN countries in Cambodia, where he held bilateral talks with his counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The discussions centered on regional security, economic development, and people-to-people exchanges.
The visit also included a meeting with the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, to discuss cooperation in areas such as trade, climate change, and counter-terrorism. MFA officials welcomed the EU's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and explored opportunities for increased collaboration on global issues.
In addition to regional and global engagements, Singapore also reaffirmed its commitment to international organizations (IOs) such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). The country's participation in these forums reflects its dedication to promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
The MFA emphasized that Singapore's diplomatic efforts are guided by a shared vision of a prosperous, secure, and interconnected Asia-Pacific community. As the city-state continues to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, its commitment to multilateralism and regional cooperation remains unwavering.
Key highlights from the event:
Singapore reaffirmed its support for ASEAN's economic integration efforts
MFA officials emphasized the importance of cooperation in addressing regional issues like climate change and maritime security
Bilateral talks with EU High Representative Josep Borrell explored opportunities for increased collaboration on global issues
Singapore's participation in international organizations reflects its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the region
Conclusion:
Singapore's high-level diplomacy underscores the country's unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and global engagement. As the city-state navigates an increasingly complex global landscape, its diplomatic efforts remain focused on fostering a prosperous, secure, and interconnected Asia-Pacific community.