Bilateral and Regional Cooperation to Strengthen Ties in Key Sectors
During his first official trip to Thailand since taking office in May, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the expanding cooperation between Singapore and Thailand in areas such as the green economy, food security, and digital economy. These initiatives will be pursued through both bilateral and regional cooperation, particularly within the context of ASEAN.
The joint press conference with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok on Nov 28, 2024, marked a significant step in solidifying the relationship between the two nations. PM Wong emphasized the importance of these areas, noting that cooperation in the green economy would include efforts like carbon credits and investments in green technologies. Thailand is already advancing in green power production, including hydrogen and biofuels, and Singapore is keen to partner on carbon credits collaboration, which will unlock new business opportunities for both nations.
PM Wong also expressed anticipation for further high-level exchanges, including Paetongtarn and her husband’s visit to Singapore in 2025, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Additionally, he noted that Thailand is preparing for visits from Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to Singapore in January and an official visit from Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in the near future.
Both leaders also underscored the strong ties between the countries in sectors such as trade, investment, and defense. The two nations are also enhancing digital finance collaboration, notably in areas like cross-country digital payments and stock exchange connections.
