Singapore played a key role in promoting regional cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations with its Southeast Asian neighbors during the 34th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Canada Summit held in Vancouver, Canada, from November 28 to 30.
The summit brought together leaders from ASEAN, Canada, and other international partners to discuss key issues such as trade, investment, security, and sustainable development. The event also marked a significant milestone in Singapore’s commitment to strengthening ties with its Southeast Asian neighbors, particularly through the ASEAN-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
A key outcome of the summit was the launch of the ASEAN-Canada Framework for People-to-People Diplomacy, which aims to promote cultural exchange, educational cooperation, and tourism between the two regions. This initiative reflects Singapore’s long-standing commitment to people-to-people diplomacy as a vital component of its foreign policy.
Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong addressed the summit, highlighting the importance of ASEAN-Canada collaboration in addressing shared regional challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and economic development. The Prime Minister also emphasized Singapore’s support for Canada’s role in promoting multilateralism and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
During the summit, Singaporean officials also participated in various working groups focused on issues like trade facilitation, investment promotion, and sustainable energy. These efforts underscore Singapore’s commitment to enhancing regional economic integration and promoting sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.
“This ASEAN-Canada Summit marks an important milestone in strengthening our bilateral ties with Canada,” said Mr. Chan Chun Shee, Minister for Trade and Industry and Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. “We look forward to working closely with Canada to promote regional cooperation, trade, and investment, as well as to address shared global challenges.”
The summit also saw the signing of several new agreements between Singapore and ASEAN member states, including a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on maritime cooperation and an agreement on digital economy. These deals reflect Singapore’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and promoting economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
Overall, the 34th ASEAN-Canada Summit underlines Singapore’s leadership role in promoting regional cooperation and strengthening ties with its Southeast Asian neighbors. As a key player in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Singapore continues to play an active role in shaping regional policies and promoting economic development in the Asia-Pacific region.
The success of the summit is a testament to the strong partnership between Singapore and Canada, as well as the growing importance of ASEAN-Canada relations in addressing shared global challenges. As Singapore looks to the future, it remains committed to strengthening its ties with Southeast Asian neighbors and promoting regional cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, security, and sustainable development.