His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden toured the Singapore Navy Museum, marking a highlight in his three-day State Visit to Singapore, as both nations reaffirmed their robust defence partnership.

SINGAPORE, 20 November 2024 – His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden was warmly welcomed by Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Sean Wat to the Singapore Navy Museum today. The visit showcased the strong and enduring defence cooperation between Singapore and Sweden, underscoring the mutual respect and collaborative spirit that define their bilateral relations.

Accompanying His Majesty were Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms Maria Malmer Stenergard, and Ambassador of Sweden to Singapore, Mr Anders Sjöberg. Representing Singapore were Non-Resident Ambassador to Sweden, Mr Andrew Kwan, Commander Maritime Training and Doctrine Command, Colonel Rinson Chua, and senior officials from both nations.

During the tour, His Majesty received a comprehensive briefing on the rich history and operational capabilities of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), with a particular focus on its longstanding partnership with the Royal Swedish Navy. This cooperation is rooted in shared expertise in submarine and mine countermeasures operations. The two nations also actively engage in professional exchanges, joint exercises, and cross-attendance of military courses, demonstrating the depth of their defence collaboration.

The visit to the Singapore Navy Museum forms part of His Majesty’s three-day State Visit to Singapore from 19 to 21 November 2024. The trip highlights the warm ties between Singapore and Sweden, which extend beyond defence to encompass trade, innovation, and cultural exchange.

The museum tour also provided an opportunity to showcase the RSN’s storied history and Singapore’s strategic maritime focus. Guests explored interactive exhibits detailing Singapore’s maritime heritage and the RSN’s pivotal role in ensuring regional security and stability.

The event concluded with an exchange of tokens of appreciation, symbolising the friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to peace and collaboration.

Source: MINDEF

President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda completed a significant working visit to Singapore from 18 to 23 September 2024, marking his fourth trip to the citystate. This visit underscored the strong and evolving partnership between Rwanda and Singapore, both members of the Forum of Small States (FOSS), an organisation that champions the interests of smaller nations and supports a resilient multilateral system.

During his stay in Singapore, President Kagame engaged in high-level meetings with key leaders, including Singapore’s President, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong. These discussions focused on advancing bilateral relations and exploring avenues for collaboration across a range of strategic sectors. Adding a personal dimension to the diplomatic visit, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong hosted President Kagame for a meal.

The visit built on the momentum established during President Kagame’s previous visit in September 2022, with both nations continuing to foster collaboration within FOSS, advocating for the interests of small nations on the global stage. Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong formally welcomed President Kagame at the Istana on 20 September 2024, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on mutual interests.

Despite the physical distance between two countries, Rwanda and Singapore have found common ground through their commitment to multilateralism and sustainable development. In their meeting, Prime Minister Wong and President Kagame explored potential areas of cooperation, particularly in digital transformation, fintech innovation, and sustainable growth, which are increasingly important for both countries.

The visit reinforced the deep-rooted partnership between Rwanda and Singapore, illustrating how small states can collaborate on a global scale to address shared priorities and uphold a resilient multilateral order.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated Invest India’s first overseas office in Singapore, reinforcing India’s dedication to fostering foreign investment and economic partnerships in Southeast Asia. This milestone comes following an announcement by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, made during his visit to Singapore on 4–5 September 2024, regarding the establishment of Invest India’s Singapore base.

Located in Singapore, the new office aims to serve as a central hub for investors in the ASEAN region, acting as a vital resource
for businesses looking to expand in India. In his address, Minister Goyal highlighted Singapore’s role as a key economic partner, noting that “this office marks a new chapter in our efforts to strengthen economic cooperation with Singapore and the broader ASEAN region.” He further announced plans to open additional Invest India offices globally to simplify international investor engagement with India’s growing economy.

As part of this initiative, Ms. Nomita of Sun Media engaged in discussions with Mr. R Khurana, Vice President of Invest India, on 29 October 2024 at Invest India’s office in Vigyan Bhawan, Maulana Azad Road. During this conversation, Mr. Khurana elaborated on the roles and objectives of Invest India, which was established in 2009 with a mission to act as a single point of contact for all investors, both foreign and domestic. He outlined Invest India’s approach to guiding investors through various stages of market entry, including sector analysis, regulatory frameworks, and regional assessments to match investment needs with suitable Indian states.

The Singapore office will not only provide tailored information to foreign investors but also facilitate networking opportunities through partnerships with regional stakeholders, including trade bodies, industry associations, and advisory networks. Mr. Khurana explained that the new office intends to support investors by fostering informed decisionmaking, offering insights into India’s economic landscape, and demystifying regulatory processes.

Invest India’s expansion aims to enhance India’s appeal as a business destination while contributing to ongoing policy-level collaborations between India and ASEAN nations. The new office also reflects India’s commitment to an investorfriendly approach, positioning Singapore as a strategic gateway for the Indian economy in Asia.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Narendra Modi, received a ceremonial welcome at the Parliament House. During his visit to Singapore, he called on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and met with Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, as well as Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong. Prime Minister Modi also had the opportunity to meet with Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.

Prime Minister Wong hosted a private dinner for Prime Minister Modi at Sri Temasek within the Istana, while Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong hosted him separately for another meal during the visit. Following the ceremonial welcome and delegation-level discussions at the Parliament House, Prime Minister Wong also accompanied Prime Minister Modi on his visit to AEM.

Prime Minister Wong and Prime Minister Modi exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments. The Prime Ministers welcomed the good progress in bilateral cooperation in a multitude of forward-looking
areas, including sustainability, digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity. They underscored the role of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, which was recently held in Singapore on 26 August 2024, as a key platform to lead and enhance cooperation. The Prime Ministers agreed to elevate the Singapore-India Strategic Partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, to reflect the commitment of both sides to further deepen and broaden the bilateral relationship.

Sun Media, Singapore, virtually meets with the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to discuss the potential for strengthening economic ties with Singapore, focusing on education, tourism, and trade while reflecting on Bosnia’s post-war recovery and future ambitions.

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Singapore, though geographically distant and culturally diverse, share untapped potential for economic cooperation and growth. While political relations between the two countries are solid, there is significant room to strengthen their economic ties. In a recent interview with the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E. Armin Limo, we explored the future of economic collaboration, with a focus on education, tourism, and trade. The Ambassador shared candid insights into his country’s post-war recovery, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities that lie ahead for both nations.

Political relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Singapore are excellent. However, as the Ambassador emphasized, economic relations have not yet reached their full potential. “Unfortunately, our economic relations are not as strong as our political ones,” he noted, setting the tone for his mission over the next two years, during which he aims to foster more robust economic collaboration, particularly in sectors like education and tourism.

One of the key areas of opportunity the Ambassador highlighted is education. Singapore’s world-class training programs, particularly in fields such as maritime, aviation, information technology (IT), and economics, present a promising avenue for collaboration. “Our students could greatly benefit from pursuing master’s degrees or professional training in Singapore,” he stated. Singapore’s universities, especially the National University of Singapore (NUS), are already well-regarded for their expertise in various disciplines. Establishing educational partnerships would not only enhance the skillsets of Bosnian students but also open doors for further bilateral engagement.

Tourism, another area of focus, has seen substantial growth in Bosnia over the last decade. “Our capital city was recently voted by National Geographic readers as the best city to visit in 2025,” the Ambassador shared proudly. Bosnia’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and increasing global visibility make it a promising destination for Singaporean tourists. Moreover, with no visa regime between the two countries, travel is straightforward, and the tourism sector holds vast growth potential.

Interestingly, Bosnia has become increasingly popular among tourists from Gulf countries, with a significant rise in the number of Saudi tourists visiting the country in recent years. This trend speaks to Bosnia’s untapped appeal as a tourism destination, a message the Ambassador hopes to extend to Singapore. “Many people still associate our country with the war from 30 years ago, but we are working hard to change that image,” he said. Bosnia’s tourism potential could be a significant contributor to boosting economic ties between the two nations.

When discussing trade, the Ambassador acknowledged the relatively modest trade figures between the two countries. Bosnia’s exports to Singapore stand at approximately €2.8 million, while Singapore’s exports to Bosnia are around €6.9 million. Though these numbers are still small, the Ambassador sees room for growth. He highlighted products like sugar, mineral oils, electrical machinery, and chemicals as key exports from Singapore to Bosnia, while Bosnia exports mostly metal products and food items to Singapore. With improved trade logistics, such as utilizing Croatian ports for shipping goods, the Ambassador believes that trade relations can be expanded.

The conversation also turned toward Bosnia’s recovery from the war, which ended nearly three decades ago. The Ambassador reflected on the profound impact the war had on the country’s population and economy. “We lost almost 900,000 people during the conflict, and many of those who fled the country never returned,” he said. Today, Bosnia faces a new challenge: brain drain, as many of its educated citizens seek better opportunities abroad. Despite these hardships, the Ambassador emphasized that Bosnia is resilient and focused on rebuilding its economy and society.

Looking to the future, Bosnia’s primary foreign policy goal is to join the European Union (EU). The country is now an official candidate for EU membership, but as the Ambassador explained, it’s a long and complex process. “Many laws still need to be aligned with EU standards, but we have crossed the first major obstacle by becoming a candidate,” he said. He is confident that EU membership will open up even greater opportunities for economic development and strengthen Bosnia’s position on the global stage.

In closing, the Ambassador expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration between Bosnia and Singapore. “There are many opportunities for both countries, especially in education, tourism, and investment,” he said. As the relationship between the two nations continues to evolve, the Ambassador remains committed to fostering stronger economic ties and promoting the wealth of opportunities that Bosnia offers.

Image Source: MFA
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters

President Joko Widodo urged stronger global collaboration on climate change as he inaugurated the Indonesian International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 in Jakarta on September 5th, 2024

Singapore, September 5th, 2024 — President Joko Widodo officially opened the Indonesian International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 in Jakarta on Thursday, September 5th, 2024. In his speech, he called for enhanced global cooperation to address the climate crisis and accelerate international sustainability efforts. He emphasised Indonesia’s willingness to partner with any nation to advance green energy and inclusive economic growth.

During his address, President Widodo highlighted Indonesia’s vast green energy potential, which exceeds 3,600 GW. He pointed to the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant, Southeast Asia’s largest with a 192 MW capacity, as a symbol of Indonesia’s commitment to renewable energy. He also noted Indonesia’s unique position as home to the world’s largest mangrove forest, which covers 3.3 million hectares and absorbs carbon 8 to 12 times more efficiently than tropical rainforests. In addition, Indonesia has a green industrial area of ​​13,000 hectares.

The ISF 2024, themed “Towards Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, co-organized by Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves) and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), attracted over 11,000 participants from 53 countries. ISF 2024 featured discussions on five key pillars: reen economy, energy transition, nature conservation, sustainable lifestyle, and a sustainable economy. The event is considered the second-largest climate action forum in the Asia-Pacific region after the upcoming COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Notable speakers at ISF 2024 included Singapore’s Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof, and Air Asia CEO Tony Fernandez. The forum also facilitated the signing of 12 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) related to energy transition, underscoring the commitment to a sustainable future.

The special guests at the ISF 2024 gala dinner were entertained by various artists, including Putri Ariani, Dwiki Dharmawan, Saykoji, the Anank Ganzerlana Choir, and an eco-friendly fashion parade by the Puteri Indonesia Foundation.

ISF 2024 was also supported by ISF advocates, including actress Chelsea Islan, actor Dion Wiyoko, and Puteri Indonesia Intelegensia 2024, Lady Diandra. They played a role in spreading information about ISF 2024 and encouraging youth participation in the forum. These advocates were chosen for their achievements, environmental concern, and commitment to sustainable growth.

Source:

In coordination with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) of the Philippine Embassy in Singapore, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Philippines’ Technical Vocational Education and Training Authority, successfully conducted the 2024 Overseas Assessment Program (OAP)  from 27th to 28th July 2024 at the Bayanihan Center, CARE Academy, and AiMS Learning International Singapore.

The two-day on-site assessment covered five programmes:
– Caregiving
– Healthcare Services
– Bread and Pastry Production
– Food and Beverages Services and
– Cookery

The programme received positive feedback from the Filipino community, emphasising its importance in providing Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with the opportunity to gain certification and enhance their skills – things which are crucial to their professional development and employability in the global market.

The programme not only validates the competencies of the OFWs but also boosts their confidence in pursuing better career opportunities. Furthermore, it underscores the Philippine government’s commitment to supporting its overseas workers by providing them with access to quality training and assessment programs.

Of the 282 candidates assessed, 232 were certified and granted National Competency (NC) certificates, which they received immediately after the assessment.

The success of the 2024 OAP highlights the collaborative efforts of TESDA, the Philippine Embassy through its attached agencies MWO and OWWA, and the various training institutions in Singapore in promoting continuous learning and skills enhancement among OFWs.

Source:

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan receives a ceremonial welcome and engages in high-level meetings with Singaporean leaders to bolster cooperation.

SINGAPORE, 23 May 2024 – President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan was ceremoniously welcomed in Singapore by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Istana. During his visit, President Tokayev also met with Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong, who hosted a lunch in his honor. The visit culminated in a State Banquet hosted by President Tharman.

President Tharman and President Tokayev reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between Singapore and Kazakhstan, emphasizing the importance of their strategic partnership. They discussed enhancing connectivity and people-to-people interactions through education, cultural exchanges, and tourism. President Tharman highlighted the upcoming ratification of the bilateral Services and Investment Agreement under the Eurasian Economic Union-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to boost economic engagement.

Prime Minister Wong and President Tokayev reviewed the progress of the partnership since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1993, exploring further cooperation in education, food security, green energy, and digitalization. Prime Minister Wong urged Kazakh businesses to leverage Singapore as a gateway to Southeast Asia and discussed regional and global issues with President Tokayev. Both leaders welcomed Air Astana’s upcoming direct flights to Singapore.

The visit also saw the signing of six intergovernmental agreements covering economic cooperation, higher education, intellectual property rights protection, legal cooperation, security cooperation, and standards. Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat and President Tokayev officiated the closing of the Third Kazakhstan-Singapore Business Forum, underscoring the importance of these agreements.

Source: MFA

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) launched its first LATAM Conference to enhance trade relations between Singapore and Latin America, featuring key industry leaders and insightful panel discussions.

SINGAPORE, 15 May 2024 – Economic cooperation between Singapore and Latin America (LATAM) has been increasing steadily over the past decade. With the signing of the Pacific Alliance Singapore Free Trade Agreement (PASFTA) and the MERCOSUR-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (MCSFTA), businesses are looking forward to greater opportunities for expansion into these markets.

To promote more business exchanges and help Singapore companies deepen their trade relations with LATAM, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) launched its inaugural LATAM Conference at SBF Center. Minister of State (MOS) for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Alvin Tan graced the event as the Guest of Honour.

The Conference provided the opportunity for key industry players, business leaders, and decision-makers from Singapore and LATAM countries to come together to explore new business opportunities and build important networks and connections.

About 150 attendees from sectors including manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, business consultancy, healthcare, EDUtech, Fintech, retail, oil and gas, engaged in the Ministerial Dialogue with MOS Alvin Tan. During the dialogue, topics focused on economic collaboration, PASFTA and MCSFTA, as well as digital trade transformation. Mr. Luis Coronado, EY Global Tax Controversy Leader & Transfer Pricing Partner, Tax, Ernst & Young Solutions LLP, and Vice-Chairman of the SBF Latin America Business Group (LABG), moderated the dialogue.

Mr. Gan Seow Kee, Vice-Chairman and Honorary Treasurer of the Singapore Business Federation and Chairman of GlobalConnect@SBF, delivered the Conference’s Welcome Remarks. Under the GlobalConnect@SBF programme, SBF has facilitated more than 250 advisories to Singapore businesses that wish to venture into LATAM over the last two years.

Two panel discussions were also held to provide the Singapore business community with updates on business opportunities and developments in the LATAM region, such as the food supply chain from LATAM to Singapore and the transformative impact of emerging technologies on e-commerce. Speakers from both Singapore and the LATAM region shared their insights into food sourcing and challenges faced in the supply chain, as well as opportunities for merchant onboarding in LATAM, including the range of financial solutions, fintech innovations, and renewable energy credit trading available for Singapore businesses.

Mr. Kok Ping Soon, Chief Executive Officer of SBF, said, “A platform to catalyse trade between Singapore and the LATAM region, the LATAM Conference in its first edition will spur discussions that would lead to greater partnerships between businesses on both sides. With strong government support for Singapore companies to venture into LATAM, there is a lot of untapped potential that we can further unlock for business growth.”

Source: SBF

Ambassador Ureerat Chareontoh and Minister Grace Fu discuss strengthening bilateral relations and future collaborations.

SINGAPORE, 14 May 2024, H.E. Mrs. Ureerat Chareontoh, the newly appointed Ambassador of ������ to Singapore, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mrs. Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations of Singapore. The meeting marked a significant step in continuing the cordial and longstanding relations between the two nations.

During their discussion, both sides celebrated the strong ties between ������ and Singapore, noting that the official visit of ������’s Prime Minister last October had further invigorated bilateral relations and cooperation. They expressed confidence that under the new Prime Minister of Singapore, the collaboration between the two countries would continue to advance.

Ambassador Chareontoh and Minister Fu also explored potential areas for future cooperation, including the digital economy, green economy, carbon credit initiatives, energy security, and food security. These discussions reflect a mutual commitment to addressing contemporary challenges and enhancing regional stability and prosperity.

Source: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore