Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong outlined an ambitious vision for Sino-Singapore relations during an exclusive interview with China Media Group, days before his inaugural official visit to the Chinese mainland since assuming office. The trip coincides with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, framed by both sides as a milestone for "future-oriented" collaboration.
Wong identified three core priorities: strengthening high-level engagement, expanding bilateral cooperation, and coordinating responses to global challenges. "In an increasingly uncertain world, it's vital that like-minded partners work to uphold multilateralism and keep trade flows open," he stated.
From Industrial Parks to Green Tech
The Prime Minister highlighted how flagship projects like the Suzhou Industrial Park have evolved into innovation hubs driving sustainability and digital transformation. New frontiers include low-carbon energy solutions and biomedical research – areas where Singapore seeks to align with China's technological advancements.
Praise for China's Development Model
Wong described China's urbanization and economic growth as "an inspiration," particularly noting the "pragmatism and competence" of Chinese leadership. His remarks come as both nations explore upgraded cooperation under China's dual circulation economic strategy.
Global Trade at Crossroads
In a pointed critique of recent U.S. tariff policies, Wong warned: "Protectionism risks unraveling the rules-based system that enabled Asia's growth." He emphasized that while multilateral frameworks need reform, smaller economies like Singapore depend on their preservation.
The leader confirmed Singapore's support for China's participation in the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) and welcomed progress on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement 3.0. "We aim to finalize this upgraded pact by October," Wong said, underscoring ASEAN's central role in regional economic integration.
As Wong prepares to address the Summer Davos forum in Tianjin, his message centers on collaborative adaptation: "The alternative to cooperation isn't independence – it's collective decline." Observers will watch how this philosophy translates into concrete agreements during his Beijing meetings.
