Strengthening Singapore-US Ties with Key Diplomatic and Economic Engagements
Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore, Lawrence Wong, has embarked on his first official working visit to the United States, marking a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two nations. The visit, which began on October 5, 2023, will see Wong, who also serves as Minister for Finance, traveling to key US cities, including Arizona, New York, and Washington DC, before returning to Singapore on October 15.
During his visit, Wong will engage in several high-level meetings and attend important events to foster bilateral cooperation in emerging areas. His itinerary includes a visit to Peace Carvin II, the Singapore Air Force’s longest-running overseas detachment based at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, as well as his participation in the GIC Investment Forum in New York, where he recently assumed the role of Deputy Chairman.
A major highlight of the trip will be Wong’s participation in the launch of a new Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) node in New York, which is designed to support the expansion of Singapore-based startups into the US market. The GIA, led by Enterprise Singapore, will help foster business connections and innovation.
In Washington DC, Wong will meet with senior officials from the Biden administration to discuss expanding cooperation in critical and emerging technologies. He is also scheduled to deliver opening remarks at the inaugural US-Singapore Dialogue on Critical and Emerging Technologies, alongside a dialogue at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Wong’s visit underscores the continued growth of the US-Singapore partnership, particularly in areas of defense, trade, and investment. The US is Singapore’s largest foreign direct investor, with investments totaling S$421.8 billion in 2022. Additionally, the long-standing defense ties between the two countries remain a cornerstone of their bilateral relationship, built on agreements that have been renewed and expanded since 1990.
The visit also highlights Singapore’s efforts to maintain strong ties with the US as it navigates global geopolitical challenges, particularly in the context of the ongoing US-China rivalry.
