In a significant diplomatic meeting in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Singaporean counterpart, Vivian Balakrishnan, have called for intensified joint efforts to safeguard regional peace and stability while addressing pressing global challenges.
Minister Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that despite their differences in scale, both the Chinese mainland and Singapore serve as stabilizing forces in an increasingly complex international landscape. He highlighted a shared commitment to multilateralism, free trade, and an international system centered on the United Nations.
A Blueprint for Practical Cooperation
The discussions touched upon a broad spectrum of strategic interests. Both nations expressed a desire to maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges and deepen practical cooperation. Key areas of focus include artificial intelligence, renewable energy, education, science and technology, and talent training. By enhancing people-to-people exchanges, both sides aim to play a leading role in regional development.
Securing Global Trade and Maritime Flow
A critical point of the dialogue focused on the security of global industrial and supply chains. Minister Wang stressed that the unimpeded flow of maritime traffic is a common aspiration and a vital interest for the international community.
Echoing this sentiment, Minister Balakrishnan underscored the importance of maintaining the openness of the Strait of Malacca, supporting free passage through the strait and other international waterways to ensure global economic continuity.
Political Alignment and Regional Leadership
Addressing critical political dimensions, Minister Balakrishnan reaffirmed Singapore's long-term and consistent adherence to the one-China policy and its firm opposition to "Taiwan independence," stressing that this position remains unchanged.
Looking toward the future, Minister Wang noted Singapore's pivotal role as an important member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). With Singapore set to assume the ASEAN chairmanship next year, China expressed high expectations for the city-state to continue promoting robust China-ASEAN cooperation.
The meeting concluded with Singapore expressing support for China's Global Development Initiative and a joint commitment to uphold the multilateral trading system with the WTO members at its core, striving together for a future of world peace, development, and prosperity.
Reference(s):
Chinese FM calls for joint regional peace efforts with Singapore
cgtn.com
