A Milestone in Cooperation and High-Level Exchanges Post-Pandemic
Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng’s visit to Singapore marks a pivotal moment in the revival of face-to-face interactions between the two nations, according to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
On Wednesday (Nov 2), Vice Premier Han met with President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, following the signing of 19 agreements during the 18th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting. Both sides highlighted the robust relationship and extensive collaboration between their countries.
MFA noted that Singapore and China maintained steady high-level interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic through virtual platforms and key bilateral visits. Vice Premier Han’s trip, the first overseas visit by a senior Chinese leader since the pandemic began, underscores the progress towards resuming in-person engagements.
The leaders acknowledged the flourishing cooperation in traditional sectors like trade, investment, and finance, as well as in newer areas such as the digital economy, innovation, and green development.
Key Outcomes of JCBC
At the JCBC meeting, co-chaired by Vice Premier Han and Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, the two countries signed agreements spanning green finance, e-commerce, public health, and tourism. Notable initiatives include:
Green Finance Taskforce: Launched by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the People’s Bank of China to enhance green investment opportunities.
Low-Carbon Index Family: To serve as a benchmark for fund managers targeting green funds in China, ASEAN, and Asia.
DPM Heng emphasised the significance of adapting bilateral cooperation to global challenges and emerging opportunities. “Reinvigorating our collaboration is essential to navigating today’s uncertain environment,” he stated.
Strengthening Regional and Global Cooperation
During Vice Premier Han’s meetings with President Halimah, PM Lee, and DPM Wong, discussions focused on advancing bilateral projects and addressing regional and global issues like climate change and economic challenges. Leaders also extended congratulations on China’s 20th National Congress of the Communist Party, which sets a new developmental blueprint for the country.
Vice Premier Han’s visit underscores Singapore and China’s commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit not only their nations but the wider region, paving the way for a stronger, greener, and more interconnected future.
