Singapore played a key role in promoting regional cooperation and economic growth at the 33rd ASEAN+3 Summit, which took place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from November 8 to 9. The two-day summit brought together leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), its three dialogue partners – China, Japan, and South Korea – as well as other regional stakeholders.
The summit focused on strengthening economic integration, promoting sustainable development, and addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and cybersecurity. Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry, Chan Chun Shiong, was part of the ASEAN delegation, while his counterpart from China, Wang Yang, and Japan’s Vice-Minister of International Affairs, Koji Takahashi, represented their respective countries.
A key highlight of the summit was the agreement on the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), which aims to increase economic cooperation between Southeast Asia and China. The agreement is expected to boost trade and investment between the two regions, with Singapore poised to benefit from increased access to the Chinese market.
The summit also saw discussions on enhancing regional food security, promoting sustainable development, and addressing transboundary issues such as haze and water pollution. Singapore’s Minister for Environment and Water Resources, Mary Ng, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing these pressing issues.
On the side lines of the summit, Singapore and China signed several agreements aimed at strengthening their economic ties, including a memorandum of understanding on maritime cooperation and an agreement to enhance cooperation in the field of technology transfer.
Singapore’s participation in the ASEAN+3 Summit reflects its commitment to regional integration and cooperation. As a key player in Southeast Asia, Singapore continues to play an important role in promoting economic growth, sustainable development, and regional security.
Regional Cooperation and Economic Growth
- The ACFTA agreement is expected to boost trade and investment between Southeast Asia and China.
- The summit saw discussions on enhancing regional food security and promoting sustainable development.
- Singapore and China signed several agreements aimed at strengthening their economic ties.
Key Players and Outcomes
Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry, Chan Chun Shiong
Chinese Vice-Premier Wang Yang
Japanese Vice-Minister of International Affairs Koji Takahashi
ASEAN leaders, including Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen
Key outcomes include the ACFTA agreement and agreements on maritime cooperation and technology transfer
Conclusion
The 33rd ASEAN+3 Summit was a significant milestone in promoting regional cooperation and economic growth. Singapore’s participation reflects its commitment to regional integration and cooperation, while the ACFTA agreement and other agreements demonstrate the region’s growing focus on economic development. As the region continues to evolve, it is essential that countries work together to address pressing global issues and promote sustainable development.
on the ASEAN+3 Summit, please visit www.mfa.gov.sg.