Singapore and S. Korea launch strategic partnership to expand bilateral links

Countries to collaborate in areas like new energy solutions, cyber security and Al safety

- Ng Wei Kai Correspondent

Singapore and South Korea have agreed to work more closely in a range of areas such as trade, sustainability and defence technology, as the two countries upgraded bilateral ties.

On Nov 1, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung jointly launched a strategic partnership between the two countries at the presidential office in Seoul.

The strategic partnership has eight agreements, including a pact to establish a green and digital shipping corridor where the two nations will collaborate to support the maritime sector's transition to zero or near-zero greenhouse gas emission fuels and accelerate digitalisation.

At a press conference following the launch, PM Wong noted that the upgrade of ties comes at a significant time, with Singapore and South Korea celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations.

When both sides established relations in 1975, the global economy was still recovering from deep turbulence. Yet South Korea and Singapore pressed on and emerged as "Asian Tigers", he added.

"We transformed our economies - each charting our own path, but always working closely together for mutual benefit," he said.

"Today, our partnership is stronger than ever."

One key agreement from the strategic partnership is for both countries to collaborate on new energy solutions, such as ammonia, hydrogen and civil nuclear energy technologies.

These efforts will not only contribute to the respective national green agendas but will also serve as models for broader regional cooperation, said PM Wong.

Both sides will also exchange knowledge and best practices between their public services, and deepen collaboration in other areas like cyber security and artificial intelligence.