Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong calls for enhanced partnerships in economic, environmental, and cultural sectors at the 20th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation in Singapore.
Singapore – At the 20th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) on November 11, 2024, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong, welcomed China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and delegates. DPM Gan highlighted the event’s importance in fostering multi-faceted collaborations between Singapore and China, encompassing both traditional economic partnerships and emerging areas like digitalization, green development, and cultural exchange.
The JCBC, which began in 2004, has expanded Singapore-China collaborations across numerous fields. DPM Gan noted the council’s role in driving significant initiatives, from trade and finance to legal, digital, and green sectors. He pointed out how the landmark projects, such as the Suzhou Industrial Park, the Tianjin Eco-city, and the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative, have paved the way for broader bilateral cooperation and new models of growth.
DPM Gan acknowledged that this year’s discussions take place amid complex global challenges, including climate change and economic volatility. He expressed optimism about advancing Singapore-China cooperation to address shared challenges, highlighting initiatives such as green and digital shipping corridors and enhanced green financing mechanisms. He emphasized the importance of deepened ties in food security, healthcare, and supply chain resilience, where demographic shifts and technological advancements continue to shape both nations’ futures.
He also stressed the value of cultural and educational exchanges in strengthening the people-to-people bonds between Singapore and China, viewing these exchanges as crucial pillars of the bilateral relationship.
Concluding his opening remarks, DPM Gan expressed anticipation for a productive exchange of ideas with Chinese counterparts, setting the stage for Vice Premier Ding’s address.
Source – PMO
