Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore
Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan strengthens diplomatic and economic ties with the Philippines during his visit from 15 to 18 April 2024.
Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, embarked on a working visit to the Republic of the Philippines from 15 to 18 April 2024. His visit included high-level meetings aimed at bolstering the longstanding relationship between Singapore and the Philippines.
On 15 April, Dr. Balakrishnan met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., where they reaffirmed the strong and enduring ties between the two nations. They discussed potential areas for bilateral cooperation and shared views on regional developments.
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore
The following day, Dr. Balakrishnan was hosted by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo for a lunch meeting. Their conversation underscored the warm friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral ties, particularly through people-to-people connections, carbon credits, renewable energy, and the ASEAN Power Grid. They also touched on significant regional and international developments, emphasizing the importance of ASEAN centrality and a rules-based international order for regional peace and stability.
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore
During a joint press conference with Secretary Manalo, Dr. Balakrishnan unveiled a logo commemorating the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and the Philippines. He highlighted the countries’ commitment to strengthening collaboration in future-oriented areas such as the green economy, smart infrastructure, and innovation.
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore
Dr. Balakrishnan’s visit also included meetings with Vice President and Secretary of Education Sara Duterte and key members of the Philippine Congress, focusing on education and tourism to bolster people-to-people ties further. His discussions with Philippine officials underscored a mutual interest in advancing significant regional initiatives and maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
Source – MFA
