14 agreements signed, highlighting strong cooperation in key areas such as digitalisation, sustainability, and green development
On December 29, Singapore and China signed 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and agreements during the 17th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC), marking the highest number of MOUs signed between the two nations in recent years. The JCBC, a key platform for high-level bilateral cooperation, was held virtually this year, co-chaired by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat and China’s Vice Premier Han Zheng.
Heng described the JCBC as an essential platform for setting the strategic direction of the countries’ relations, which have been built on a strong foundation of collaboration. He noted that the agreements signed this year focus on the future, with an emphasis on post-COVID economic recovery. “We need to create an economy that is more digitalised and reliant on technology and innovation,” Heng said.
The agreements cover several key areas, including the digital economy, science and technology, green development, and the building of smart cities. Among the emerging areas highlighted during the discussions were digitalisation, sustainability, and people-to-people connectivity.
On sustainability, Heng stressed the global priority of combating climate change, noting that both countries’ efforts in green development reflect their shared commitment to high-quality development. One of the MOUs addresses nature conservation, including resource optimisation, plastic and e-waste management, and Zero Waste initiatives.
The digital economy was another area of focus, with both leaders discussing how digital technologies could aid economic recovery and sustainable long-term growth. Heng emphasised the importance of building interoperable digital frameworks to benefit ASEAN and the wider global community.
People-to-people connectivity also took centre stage, with Heng expressing Singapore’s desire to restore air travel links with China. He noted that many Singaporeans were hopeful that once China is ready to resume cross-border travel, Singapore would be one of the first countries to see increased connectivity.
The signing of these agreements reflects the strengthening of bilateral ties and a shared vision for the future of both nations.
