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‘New era’ in Singapore-China ties? Incoming PM Lawrence Wong and Li Qiang agree to boost cooperation

  • Both discussed potential areas of collaboration within the digital economy, renewable and clean energy sector
  • Analysts say Wong’s four-day Beijing visit is a sign of ‘increased responsibility in international affairs’ as he is set to take over as Singapore PM by next November

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Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong meets Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on May 16. Photo: Xinhua
Singapore’s incoming prime minister Lawrence Wong met Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Wednesday, where both agreed they should continue to promote “mutually beneficial cooperation” and strengthen ties between people and businesses.
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The meeting took place on the second day of a four-day visit by Wong to China. He will also co-chair an annual bilateral forum that analysts say will provide a key platform for the new leadership on both sides to get to know each other better.

The two officials discussed potential areas of cooperation within the digital economy, renewable and clean energy sector, as well as in other emerging areas, according to a statement from the Singapore Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

Both also traded views on regional and global developments, and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining an open, inclusive and “rules-based regional architecture”.

Wong and Li “expressed satisfaction with the strong momentum of high-level exchanges between both sides as well as the successful convening of bilateral institutionalised platforms, such as the Singapore-China Forum on Leadership in September and the Singapore-China Legal and Judicial Roundtable last week”, the PMO stated.

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Both Wong and Li “reaffirmed the multi-faceted and close ties between Singapore and China”, the PMO said, adding the relationship had evolved over the years according to the needs and priorities of both sides.
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