FM Vivian Balakrishnan meets with Chinese leaders, strengthening bilateral relations
SINGAPORE: During his visit to China, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met with key Chinese leaders, reaffirming the enduring and robust relations between the two nations.
From February 19 to 21, Dr Balakrishnan visited Beijing at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Qin Gang. On Monday, he engaged with Yin Li, the Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee.
The meeting underscored the strong historical ties between Singapore and China, which have remained resilient even through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, as stated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
Both leaders discussed ways to deepen cooperation in various sectors, including the economy, research, innovation, urban planning, and cultural exchanges, strengthening people-to-people connections.
Dr Balakrishnan was also hosted for lunch by Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC, where the two ministers highlighted the multifaceted nature of the partnership between their countries. Their mutual support during the pandemic was a key point of discussion.
They also emphasised the importance of resuming in-person interactions at all levels, including government, people, and party exchanges, to foster trust and understanding between the nations.
Further discussions between Dr Balakrishnan and Mr Qin focused on the bilateral partnership, supported by mechanisms like the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation and key projects in Suzhou, Tianjin, and Chongqing.
Both ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation in emerging areas, including the digital and green economies, and to support the post-pandemic recovery through enhanced air connectivity and increased business and people flows.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City, and the ministers look forward to further high-level exchanges to celebrate this milestone.
Additionally, Dr Balakrishnan extended an invitation to Mr Qin for an official visit to Singapore, and both parties reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security in the region.
