On March 12, 2025, Vietnam and Singapore officially upgraded their bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking Singapore’s first such partnership with an ASEAN member state. This significant development was announced during a meeting between Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at Singapore’s Parliament House.
The establishment of this partnership aims to deepen cooperation across various sectors, particularly in the digital economy and renewable energy. Both nations recognize the importance of these areas in driving sustainable growth and enhancing their economic resilience. The partnership is expected to facilitate greater collaboration in technology transfer, innovation, and the development of smart cities, aligning with both countries’ goals of advancing their economies in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Additionally, the leaders emphasized the need for enhanced defense and security cooperation, reflecting a shared commitment to regional stability and peace. This includes joint efforts in addressing common challenges such as cybersecurity threats and maritime security in the South China Sea.The upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership also signifies a mutual recognition of the strategic alignment between Vietnam and Singapore, reinforcing their roles as key players in the ASEAN region. Both countries have a long history of diplomatic relations, dating back to 1973, and this new partnership is seen as a natural progression in their evolving relationship.
Overall, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is poised to bring substantial benefits to both nations, fostering a closer economic and strategic alignment that can enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.
Vietnam upgrades Singapore ties as it seeks to boost regional trade
By: RFA
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