Malacca, Malaysia – In a move to strengthen regional cooperation and address common challenges, Singapore played a key role in the 39th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit held in Malacca, Malaysia, from February 22 to 23. The summit brought together leaders from 10 ASEAN member states, as well as dialogue partners and guest countries.
During the summit, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong delivered a keynote address, highlighting the importance of economic integration, digital connectivity, and climate change mitigation in Southeast Asia. He also emphasized the need for regional leaders to work together to address shared security challenges, including terrorism and cybersecurity threats.
The summit saw significant progress on several fronts, including the adoption of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025, which aims to create a single market and production base by 2025. The region also made significant strides in enhancing regional infrastructure connectivity, including the development of the ASEAN Single Window.
In addition to economic and security cooperation, ASEAN leaders also discussed climate change and sustainable development, with Singapore playing a key role in promoting green technologies and environmental initiatives in the region. The summit also saw the launch of several new initiatives, including the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the ASEAN-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Free Trade Area.
Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, led the Singaporean delegation to the summit, which also included senior officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of National Development, Urban Planning and Heritage, and the Ministry of Communications and Information. The delegation engaged in extensive discussions with ASEAN leaders on various regional issues, including trade, investment, security, and environmental protection.
During the summit, Singapore also hosted a series of side events and ministerial meetings, which brought together senior officials from ASEAN member states, dialogue partners, and international organizations. These events focused on key areas such as counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and sustainable development, among others.
“The 39th ASEAN Summit was a significant success, with Singapore playing a key role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among regional leaders,” said Minister Balakrishnan. “We look forward to continuing our engagement with ASEAN member states and partner countries to address the region’s pressing challenges and promote economic growth and development.”
The summit concluded with the adoption of the Malacca Declaration, which outlined a roadmap for ASEAN’s future development and cooperation. The declaration emphasized the importance of regional integration, sustainable development, and people-to-people diplomacy in achieving the region’s goals.
With its strong commitment to regional cooperation and engagement, Singapore continues to play a leading role in shaping Southeast Asia’s future. As the region navigates the challenges of economic growth, security, and climate change, Singapore remains committed to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
- Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong delivered a keynote address at the ASEAN Summit, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation on key issues such as economic integration, digital connectivity, and climate change mitigation.
- The summit saw significant progress on several fronts, including the adoption of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025 and the development of the ASEAN Single Window.
- Singapore played a key role in promoting green technologies and environmental initiatives in the region, including the launch of new climate change and sustainable development initiatives.