Singapore’s Foreign Minister underscores the importance of deeper EU–ASEAN collaboration as global uncertainty grows, at EuroCham Singapore’s Annual General Meeting
Sun Media’s Editor-in-Chief, Ms. Nomita was in attendance at the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) Singapore’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and reported on the proceedings, where Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, reaffirmed the importance of strong partnerships between Singapore and the European Union, as well as broader EU–ASEAN cooperation in an increasingly fragmented and volatile global environment.
Speaking at the AGM on 29 April 2026, Dr. Balakrishnan highlighted the need for consensus-building and practical collaboration in navigating geopolitical and economic uncertainty. The event, held at Amara Hotel, brought together senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, and business leaders from across Europe and Southeast Asia.
The AGM comes at a significant juncture, ahead of EuroCham Singapore’s 25th anniversary and in the lead-up to key milestones in 2027, including 60 years of ASEAN and 50 years of EU–ASEAN Dialogue Relations. These anniversaries underscore the enduring relevance of inter-regional cooperation.
Drawing on discussions from the recent ASEAN–EU Ministerial Meeting in Brunei Darussalam, Dr. Balakrishnan emphasised that meaningful progress requires consensus among diverse stakeholders. While ambitious declarations may be made, he noted that lasting outcomes depend on broad alignment and commitment. He also called for accelerated efforts towards EU–ASEAN free trade agreements, pointing to the mutual economic benefits such frameworks can deliver.
In his address ahead of the fireside chat, Dr Balakrishnan said, “The key point for the principle of consensus and deliberations is when you’re dealing with such diversity, getting everyone on board is critical, otherwise, you can make grand announcements – but you can’t make it stick.”
He also emphasised, “What I would like is to accelerate EU-ASEAN free trade agreements”.
In addressing the broader global context, the Minister underscored the shared commitment between the EU and Southeast Asia to the rule of law, open markets, and multilateral cooperation. With globalisation under strain and protectionist tendencies on the rise, he argued that closer collaboration between like-minded partners is more important than ever.
EuroCham Singapore President Mr. Jens Rübbert echoed these sentiments, stressing the continued relevance of free trade and the need to communicate its value more effectively, particularly within Europe. He noted that despite growing scepticism in some quarters, global economic integration remains indispensable.
President Jens Rübbert said the changes reflect “both who we are today and where we are heading.”
European Union Ambassador to Singapore, H.E. Artis Bertulis, highlighted the breadth of EU–Singapore cooperation, extending beyond trade into digital innovation and sustainability. He pointed to initiatives such as the EU–Singapore Digital Partnership and complementary green strategies, including Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and the EU Green Deal, as examples of how both sides are working together to address future challenges.
“The EU and Singapore have navigated an increasingly uncertain economic environment, one we did not choose, but one we must confront. The rules-based international order has come under severe strain. Wars, energy shortages, and the weaponisation of trade have tested our resilience. But in these trials, we have seen the strength of our partnership.” said H.E. Bertulis.
Ambassador H.E. Artis Bertulis also acknowledged the pressures facing the global economic order, including geopolitical tensions, energy disruptions, and the increasing use of trade as a strategic tool. Despite these challenges, he noted that the resilience of the EU–Singapore partnership has been evident.
The AGM also marked a milestone for EuroCham Singapore, which unveiled a refreshed brand identity and new website as it prepares for its next phase of growth. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to fostering thought leadership, strengthening public-private dialogue, and supporting meaningful, outcome-driven collaboration between European businesses and Singapore.
As global uncertainty continues to shape the international landscape, the discussions at EuroCham Singapore’s AGM reflect a shared recognition: that strong partnerships, grounded in common values and practical cooperation, remain essential for sustainable growth and stability.
Source: EuroCham Singapore
