The inaugural U.S.-Singapore Critical and Emerging Technology (CET) Dialogue marks a significant milestone in fostering collaborative efforts across key technological frontiers.
On October 12, 2023, the United States and Singapore reaffirmed the transformative potential of technology in driving inclusive economic growth and shaping future geopolitical dynamics. Building on the high-level meeting between U.S. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in March 2022, both nations committed to advancing open, secure, and accessible technology ecosystems founded on mutual trust and adherence to the rules-based international order.
Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong provided opening remarks at the inaugural U.S.-Singapore CET Dialogue in Washington, D.C. The event, chaired by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and other key figures, underscored the determination of both nations to enhance their partnership at the forefront of scientific and technological endeavors. This commitment extends to addressing the climate crisis through the U.S.-Singapore Climate Partnership, aimed at driving innovation in low- and zero-emission technologies.
The CET Dialogue, a pioneering initiative, signifies the commencement of enduring collaboration across business, scientific, and national security domains, with a focus on benefiting both U.S. and Singaporean citizens, as well as ASEAN and the wider Indo-Pacific region. The dialogue aims to fortify scientific and research ties, facilitating the timely exchange of knowledge and information across governments, industries, and academia. Additionally, discussions regarding a bilateral agreement to expand science and technology cooperation are underway.
This high-level forum complements and accelerates existing bilateral engagements such as the U.S.-Singapore Partnership for Growth and Innovation and the U.S.-Singapore Cyber Dialogue. It supports joint initiatives in multilateral economic frameworks, like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), designed to enhance trade flows, establish resilient supply chains, promote the clean-energy transition, and combat corruption.
The CET Dialogue focuses on six core areas pivotal to shared security and prosperity:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Both nations commit to advancing shared principles and information exchange in AI security, safety, trust, and standards development. This includes the establishment of a bilateral AI Governance Group.
- Digital Economy and Data Governance: The U.S. and Singapore seek to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth through technology, with a focus on issues like data governance, digital standards, and digital inclusion.
- Biotechnology: Emphasis is placed on developing secure biotechnologies in line with ethical norms, with a focus on research priorities in synthetic biology and genetic delivery systems.
- Critical Infrastructure and Technology Supply Chains: Collaboration aims to promote secure and resilient ICT infrastructure, including smart city initiatives with a focus on climate resilience.
- Defense Innovation: The U.S. Department of Defense and the Singapore Ministry of Defence plan to accelerate collaboration on critical emerging technologies and defense innovation.
- Quantum Information Science and Technology: Both nations commit to expanding engagement and talent exchanges in quantum information sciences, and to supporting international partnerships.
The U.S. and Singapore envision continued consultations to build a robust innovation ecosystem and ensure emerging technologies enhance shared security and prosperity. The next CET Dialogue is slated for 2024 in Singapore.
Source : MFA Singapore
