Singapore-China Ties More Vital Than Ever Amid Global Uncertainty, Says PM Wong

Leaders affirm support for open trade and rules-based multilateral trading system

- Yew Lun Tian

BEIJING - Amid a turbulent and uncertain world, the relationship between Singapore and China is more important than before, visiting Prime Minister Lawrence Wong told Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"We can work together to establish closer ties and also to cooperate in regional and multilateral platforms, to continue to strengthen multilateralism and the rules-based global order for the benefit of all countries," PM Wong said at the meeting on June 24 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

He is making his first visit to China as prime minister, amid uncertainties sparked by wars and the US imposition of high tariffs on goods from much of the world, which has undermined the post-World War II global order that has allowed for free trade.

Mr Xi said: "In the face of the current chaotic international situation, China is willing to strengthen strategic cooperation with Singapore, tighten the bonds of cooperation, and join hands to address challenges, to bring more benefits to the people of the two countries."

At the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments, noting the growing complexity of the international economic landscape, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said later in a statement.

They agreed on the importance of open and inclusive trade as a key driver of growth and stability. Both also reaffirmed their support for a rules-based multilateral trading system, and underscored the need for continued cooperation to strengthen the relevance and effectiveness of global economic institutions, MFA said.

According to Chinese state news agency Xinhua, Mr Xi said that the global trend towards peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit is irreversible, and the world must not return to hegemony or the law of the jungle.

"China is willing to work with Singapore to stand on the right side of history, and the side of fairness and justice," Xinhua quoted him as saying.