In a significant display of regional leadership, Singapore played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Southeast Asia and promoting multilateral cooperation at the 37th ASEAN Summit and APEC Economic Leaders Meeting (AELM) in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Over the weekend, President Halimah Yacob attended the summit, where she reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to regional stability, economic growth, and people-to-people ties. The meeting brought together leaders from 10 Southeast Asian countries, as well as China, Japan, Korea, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Peru, and the European Union.
Singapore also hosted several side events and forums, including a high-level dialogue on maritime security, an ASEAN-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) discussion, and a workshop on women’s empowerment in the region. These initiatives aimed to foster cooperation on key issues such as trade, investment, and climate change.
At the AELM, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong called for a more proactive approach to addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, pandemics, and technological disruption. He emphasized the need for greater regional economic integration, improved supply chain resilience, and enhanced cooperation on security and defense issues.
Singapore’s active engagement in these forums reflects its commitment to playing a constructive role in shaping the future of Southeast Asia and promoting multilateral cooperation globally. With its unique position as a small island nation with significant global influence, Singapore has established itself as a trusted partner for regional and international organizations.
The country’s efforts to promote regional stability and economic growth have been recognized by various international organizations, including the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
In conclusion, Singapore’s diplomatic activities in recent days underscore its dedication to regional leadership, multilateral cooperation, and addressing global challenges. As a small island nation with significant global influence, Singapore continues to play an important role in shaping the future of Southeast Asia and beyond.
Key Highlights from the ASEAN Summit and APEC Economic Leaders Meeting
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ASEAN-EU EPA discussion
High-level dialogue on maritime security
Workshop on women’s empowerment in the region
ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) meeting
Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum
Singapore has diplomatic ties with over 150 countries. To learn more about the relationships and highlights between Singapore and other countries, please visit our website at www.mfa.gov.sg.