Post by : Shakul
High-level discussions between Vietnam’s General Secretary and President To Lam and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam took place on May 29 in Singapore, aiming to fortify their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and broaden cooperation in various strategic fields.
The meeting followed a ceremonious welcoming that demonstrated high diplomatic protocols. President Tharman extended a warm reception to President To Lam, his spouse, and the Vietnamese entourage, while also congratulating him on his recent presidential election by Vietnam’s 16th National Assembly.
During the discussions, President Tharman commended Vietnam’s robust economic progress and its growing global influence. He expressed confidence in President To Lam’s leadership, believing Vietnam will maintain its active developmental pace and enhance its global role. They also discussed the significance of To Lam’s presence at the Shangri-La Dialogue, focusing on pivotal security and economic issues.
President To Lam voiced appreciation for the warm welcome in Singapore, emphasizing that Vietnam highly values its relationship with Singapore. He referred to the partnership as a paradigm of successful collaboration in Southeast Asia, indicating that his visit signifies Vietnam’s commitment to further advance bilateral ties.
Both leaders acknowledged the progress made since Vietnam and Singapore upgraded their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in March 2025, particularly in areas like political trust, commerce, investment, digital transformation, and people-to-people interactions.
They talked about seizing new economic growth avenues through innovation and high-value industries, agreeing to stimulate investment flows, enhance business engagement, and foster collaboration in strategic areas like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure.
Emphasizing science, technology, and innovation as core elements for future cooperation, both presidents supported increasing synergy among governments, businesses, and research bodies to ensure the practical application of technological advancements for mutual economic benefits.
The discussions also touched upon regional and international concerns, where both leaders reiterated their dedication to bolstering ASEAN unity, encouraging multilateral efforts, and endorsing ASEAN’s pivotal role in addressing regional issues. They affirmed their intent to enhance cooperation in international platforms such as the United Nations, ASEAN, and APEC.
Highlighting the necessity of peace and stability in the South China Sea, both leaders stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and adherence to international law. They voiced support for effective and substantial negotiations regarding the Code of Conduct (COC) and underscored the need for peaceful resolution of disputes based on international legal principles.
At the end of their discussions, both parties agreed to task their respective ministries with the active implementation of the agreements established during the visit. President To Lam extended an invitation to President Tharman and his spouse to visit Vietnam soon, which was warmly embraced.
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