Singapore and Vietnam Reaffirm Strong Partnership, Pledge Closer Cooperation Ahead of ASEAN and APEC Leadership Roles

SINGAPORE: Singapore and Vietnam have reaffirmed their longstanding and close partnership, highlighting strong economic cooperation and shared commitment to regional growth, connectivity, and development.

The success of the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIPs) was underscored as a key symbol of the strong economic ties between the two countries and their continued focus on mutual development.

The remarks came during a meeting between Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam To Lam, who is on a state visit to Singapore.

During his visit, President To Lam delivered a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, where he outlined three major global challenges: a return to a “might is right” international order, increasing pressures on globalisation, and a growing breakdown of trust among nations.

Singapore noted that these concerns strongly resonate with its own foreign policy outlook, which consistently emphasises respect for international law, open trade, and constructive dialogue as foundations for global stability.

Both sides also discussed future regional cooperation, with Singapore expressing readiness to work closely with Vietnam as it assumes the APEC chairmanship. In turn, Singapore is preparing to take on the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2027, further reinforcing opportunities for deeper collaboration between the two nations.

The meeting highlighted the shared vision of Singapore and Vietnam in strengthening regional stability and advancing economic integration in an increasingly complex global environment.