[BEIJING] In a more uncertain and turbulent world, Singapore and China must not only forge stronger bilateral ties, but also work together in regional and multilateral platforms, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Monday (Jun 23), the first full day of his five-day official visit to China.
In a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, PM Wong said that the two countries’ relationship has “grown from strength to strength”, particularly following the upgrade of ties to an “All-Around High-Quality Future-Oriented Partnership” in 2023.
This partnership has provided a “clear strategic direction” for cooperation, and provides a basis for Singapore and China to come up with fresh ideas and continue to find new ways to strengthen cooperation, such as in the digital and green spaces, he said.
“This deep level of trust and understanding cannot be taken for granted,” said PM Wong. “It has to be cultivated year after year, generation after generation.”
In his remarks, he noted that his introductory visit to China comes shortly after Singapore’s last general election on May 3.
He said that some in his delegation are new members of his team. He added: “I’m encouraging everyone in my Cabinet to continue visiting China regularly, so that we can continue to build and strengthen the close ties between our two countries.”
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This meeting at the Great Hall of the People took place shortly after a welcome ceremony for PM Wong. This was the first time they have met since the Asean Summit in Laos in October last year.
PM Wong is in China until Thursday for what is his first official visit to the country since becoming prime minister in May last year. His trip also takes place as Singapore and China celebrate the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties, he noted.
For these reasons, the visit is “extra meaningful”, said the prime minister.
PM Wong and Li will attend an agreement signing ceremony later on Monday, after which the Chinese leader will host PM Wong and his delegation to a dinner banquet.
On Tuesday, PM Wong is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and China’s third-in-command, National People’s Congress chairman Zhao Leji.
